The Travel Corporation Names New President of Destination America
by Dori Saltzman
The Travel Corporation has named Kirsten Bain as CEO of Destination America. She replaces Richard Launder, who retired in late February after 40 years with the company.
Bain most recently served as vice president of Contiki Operations, USA. Over her 18-year tenure with TTC, she has held a variety of senior operations and contracting roles in Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas. She began with TTC 18 years ago as a Contiki tour manager.
“On behalf of The Travel Corporation, we would like to sincerely thank Richard for his outstanding leadership and contributions during his 40-year career and wish him the very best in his future endeavors,” said Brett Tollman, chairman of The Travel Corporation.
Launder began his TTC career with Contiki as a bartender at their Chateau de Cruix and as a tour manager in Europe and New Zealand. He worked numerous roles including Resort Manager, sales manager, vice president of Contiki Operations, and Contiki president. He was appointed president of Destination America in 1999, but left to serve as The Travel Corporation USA president from 2005 to 2018, then returned to Destination America as president and CEO in 2018.
