Johnna Ritchie

Background

About Johnna Ritchie

I design and manage tourism programs that connect people to place, strengthen communities, and support long-term regional growth. For me, the best travel experiences go beyond great itineraries—they create meaningful connections between visitors and the destinations they explore. With experience across both global adventure companies and locally led programs, I understand how to align community values with business goals. I’ve managed multi-region partnerships, negotiated contracts, and collaborated with marketing teams to design initiatives that grow engagement and drive measurable results. This balance of strategy and heart allows me to support tourism development that benefits both travelers and local economies. As a Destination Manager at Explorer Chick Adventure Co, I oversee the full lifecycle of our adventure tours, from itinerary design and pricing to vendor coordination, logistics, and execution. I work closely with destination partners, tourism organizations, and marketing teams to align outreach and storytelling strategies that drive engagement and inspire travel. My goal is to build partnerships that benefit both travelers and host communities, delivering inclusive, authentic experiences that reflect the character of each place. What drives me: • Sustainably expanding access to travel through inclusive, intentional design • Building systems that support sustainable growth and seamless operations behind the scenes • Designing trips that push boundaries, build confidence, and foster deep connections with nature • Collaborating with local operators and tourism organizations to create authentic, inclusive experiences To deepen my expertise, I’m pursuing a Master’s in Outdoor Recreation Economy at the University of Colorado-Boulder, exploring the intersection of recreation, conservation, and sustainable tourism. My goal is to play a thoughtful role in the future of tourism, where exploration is not just about the places we go but the connections we build along the way.