Cottar’s & Nikoi Islands CEO Swap: Leadership Exchange News

A rare cross-continental leadership exchange will notice the CEOs of two globally recognized regenerative tourism operators swap roles for a month, beginning in April. Louise Cottar, CEO of Cottar’s Safaris in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, will work within Nikoi and Cempedak Islands in Indonesia, while Andrew Dixon, CEO of Nikoi and Cempedak Islands, will join the team at Cottar’s Safaris.

The initiative, designed to foster fresh perspectives and strengthen sustainable tourism practices, involves each CEO fully immersing themselves in the other’s organization and operating environment. This includes direct involvement in conservation efforts, community partnerships, guest experiences, and day-to-day operations, according to a statement released by both companies.

Both Cottar’s Safaris and Nikoi and Cempedak Islands are accredited as Long Run Global Ecosphere Retreats – a distinction held by only twelve properties worldwide. This accreditation signifies a commitment to high standards in conservation, community engagement, cultural preservation, and commerce.

“When sustainability leaders collaborate openly, progress accelerates,” said Louise Cottar, CEO of Cottar’s Safaris. The exchange aims to provide honest external perspectives and shared learning at a high level within the sustainable tourism sector, with a focus on improving conservation, community engagement, and guest experiences.

The leadership immersion is scheduled to take place throughout April 2026. Seychelles is preparing to host the 69th Meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa in July 2026, but no direct connection to the CEO exchange has been established.