Explore promotes Andrew Steward to head of digital transformation

The small group adventure operator says it wants to make 'big steps forward' in the adoption of technology and being agile

Small group adventure operator Explore has promoted head of digital marketing Andrew Steward to lead the digital transformation of the business.

Steward has spent ten years in the adventure travel industry, having spent six years in a senior digital role with the Intrepid Group before joining Explore to head up the digital marketing team three-and-a-half years ago.  

Explore said in this role he has created and developed a new digital marketing team, onboarding new digital and web development agencies.

As the newly-created head of digital transformation, Steward’s will oversee major digital projects as the business focusses on customer-centric booking and self-service solutions. 

Steward said: “I’m delighted to take on this brand new role at Explore, which really reflects the company’s dedication to digital.

“The business is strategically supporting digital transformation at the very highest level in order to provide our customers with the best possible service, whether they want to interact fully online or get the best customer service when calling the call centre.”

Explore managing director Michael Edwards said: “We know that leading technology is absolutely crucial for our continued growth. 

“I am thrilled to promote Andrew into the newly created head of digital transformation role, where he will sit amongst the Explore leadership team.  

“Travel doesn’t have a particularly good reputation when it comes to the fast adaptation of digital and being agile – so with proper investment and the right team in place, led by Andrew, Explore is in a great position to make big steps forward.”

Steward’s appointment as Rachael Stone joined Explore in another new role of Head of Product role. 

She joins the business with 13 years’ experience in the sector, having worked as a tour leader for Tucan, run the customer service team at Exodus before becoming general manager of the company’s internal DMC, and latterly headed up the product team at Flash Pack.

The head of product role was created to facilitate the business’s global growth plans, and focus on product innovation. 

Reporting into product director, Simon Grove, Stone will focus on the 15-strong product team already in place at Explore.

She said: “I have long admired the values and integrity of Explore, a values-driven brand with an outstanding reputation, and am really looking forward to helping the business return to being the No 1 small group adventure tour operator.”

Edwards added: “We’re delighted to welcome Rachael to the team. Her breadth of experience in the sector brings a fresh perspective and a panoramic view - to ensure that our product is always Better Than Yesterday, in line with our brand values.”