&Beyond’s new Regional Director of Touring (Southern Africa)

&Beyond is delighted to announce the appointment of Gael Timms as Regional Director of Touring (Southern Africa) from 1 July 2012.

“Gael is one of the best DMC operators in the business and brings to &Beyond over 35 years of experience in both tour operating and lodges. I am thrilled that she has joined &Beyond’s leadership team. There is no doubt that she will help us achieve our focused mission of being the finest luxury experiential travel company in Africa with a particular focus for Gael of creating extraordinary adventures and guest experiences across Southern Africa”, says Joss Kent, &Beyond CEO. 

Gael played a pivotal role in establishing Abercrombie & Kent’s (A&K’s) DMC in South Africa. In 1986, she was transferred to A&K USA to manage the FIT and brochure touring divisions. Upon returning to South Africa, Gael worked for various companies, including World Leisure Holidays as Director of Operations.

Returning to A&K in 1997, Gael held the key role of General Manager of A&K Southern Africa and in 2001 the Sanctuary Retreats Botswana luxury lodge circuit was added to her portfolio. Most recently, Gael was the Regional Managing Director for A&K Southern Africa, before taking a sabbatical to spend more time with her family.

“I have always admired the philanthropic work &Beyond does for conservation areas and the surrounding communities, and that is what inspired me to end my sabbatical. &Beyond pioneered the conservation model and has been a leader ever since. I am passionate about creating unforgettable experiences for guests and clients, either at the lodges or on tailormade adventures and I am looking forward not only to the challenge, but also to be working under Joss’ dynamic leadership once again”, says Gael.