Explora Taps Former A&K Executive for Chief Marketing Officer Role

Explora, the operator of several high-end lodges in South America, has named Jacqueline Barney as its new chief marketing officer, heading up all global marketing efforts. She will be responsible for the oversight of public relations, digital and social media, events, and partnerships. She will also oversee sales operations throughout North America with a focus on trade, direct, and commercial activity.

Barney joins the hospitality brand with two decades of experience in luxury travel. She most recently held a senior commercial leadership role at Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group, overseeing strategic partnerships, global sales initiatives, and experiential programming for multiple portfolios. She has also held senior leadership roles in marketing and brand development at The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and National Geographic Expeditions, as well as spending time at Seabourn, Silversea Cruises, and Adventures by Disney.

“I’ve long admired Explora, whose creative approach to adventure travel and work as a B Corp promoting conservation and responsible travel are very much aligned with my values and passions,” Barney said.

Barney is based in South Florida but will work closely with the executive team at Explora headquarters in Santiago, Chile. She joins the brand at a busy moment in the company’s history. With the addition of two new destinations – Explora El Calafate in Argentina and Explora Torres del Paine Conservation Reserve in Chile – Explora will soon operate five lodges throughout the region.