Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc. has announced significant changes to its executive leadership. Natalya Leahy will assume the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) role on Jan. 1, 2025, while Rick Goldberg will take on the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) effective Dec. 31, 2024.
“As Lindblad Expeditions moves into its 46th year, I am delighted and confident that the leadership of Natalya Leahy as CEO and Rick Goldberg as CFO will represent an energized, talented and experienced partnership, leading the Company into our next phase of growth in the experiential travel space both at sea and on land,” said Sven-Olof Lindblad, Founder and current CEO of Lindblad Expeditions and a member of the Board, in a press statement. “I look very much forward to, along with my fellow Board members, supporting Natalya and Rick to maintain and strengthen our position as the leaders in this rapidly growing sector of the travel industry and creating meaningful value for all of our stakeholders.”
Leahy brings extensive experience from the luxury cruise industry. Her most recent position was President of Seabourn, overseeing all aspects of the company’s operations and managing a global team of over 4,000 employees. Her career includes leadership roles at Holland America Group, where she served as Chief Operations Officer (COO) and CFO. Leahy’s professional background also encompasses positions at international organizations such as The Procter & Gamble Company, United Nations and The Coca-Cola Company.
“I’m excited and humbled by the opportunity to lead such a purpose-driven organization like Lindblad Expeditions, the pioneer of modern expedition cruising and the undisputed expert in adventure travel,” said Leahy in a press statement. “Nearly 50 years ago, Lindblad Expeditions created the expedition travel category, serving as a beacon of authentic, immersive, and responsible exploration. I wholeheartedly believe in the transformative power of travel, and Lindblad Expeditions is uniquely creating life-changing experiences for sophisticated travelers eager to explore the Earth’s most extraordinary places in extreme comfort. I’m honored to join the talented team here and build on Sven’s legacy as we embrace the exciting opportunities ahead.”
Additional Leadership Changes at Lindblad Expeditions
Goldberg joins Lindblad Expeditions from his current role as CFO of Founders Table Restaurant Group. In this position, he has been responsible for finance, real estate and development, franchising, and customer insights for the fast-casual restaurant company since 2021. His previous experience includes leadership roles at Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Inc., one of the largest assisted tax preparation service providers in the United States.
“I am thrilled to be joining Lindblad Expeditions as the new CFO and to be a part of such a revered Company with a deep heritage,” said Goldberg in a press statement. “With a strong financial foundation and impressive growth trajectory ahead, I look forward to delivering long-term value for our shareholders while creating exceptional guest experiences together with Lindblad Expeditions’ talented leadership team.”
These appointments coincide with changes in the roles of current leadership. Sven-Olof Lindblad, the founder and CEO, will transition to the position of Co-Chair of the Board. Dyson Dryden, who has been serving as interim CFO, will maintain his position as a Board Director.
Mark D. Ein, Chairman of the Board at Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc., expressed enthusiasm about the new executive appointments. He highlighted Leahy’s background in senior leadership roles within global travel and brand-focused companies and Goldberg’s experience as a senior finance leader. Ein emphasized that their expertise aligns with the company’s vision and mission and will be crucial in driving operational and financial performance, achieving growth objectives, and creating value for stakeholders.
For more information, visit investors.exepeditions.com.
