Journey Beyond’s Monarto Safari Resort gets new GM and Sales and Marketing director

Journey Beyond has appointed Andreas Huck as general manager and Imogen Rivers as director of Sales and Marketing at its new Monarto Safari Resort – the largest open-range safari experience outside of Africa.

Huck is highly brings more than two decades of hotel and hospitality experience to the resort which the Journey Beyond recently acquired. Originally from Germany and having started his career at the luxury 5-star Intercontinental Hotel in Frankfurt which gave him a keen eye and solid foundation for service excellence.

Huck has spent the past 15 years in Tasmania, with guest experience manager at Freycinet Lodge, as well as assistant hotel manager at Piermont Retreat and MONA. Huck’s most recent position was as Operations Manager at Crowne Plaza Hobart.

“When guests leave a hotel, they often remember the staff they met, especially those who created meaningful connections. I call them the ‘Holidaymakers’,” Huck said. “That’s what drives me in this industry: creating an environment where both guests and colleagues feel valued and inspired.”

“Monarto Safari Resort is a game-changer in Australian tourism, offering guests an unforgettable stay alongside incredible wildlife and unique connections to nature. I look forward to welcoming our first guests and recruiting and building a talented team to bring this vision to life.” 

Rivers has more than 15 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, with expertise in strategic sales and business development, having worked with leading global hotel brand Hilton, both in on-property roles and representing the brands on a regional level, both nationally and internationally.

Her most recent position was at Sofitel Adelaide, where she was instrumental in driving revenue growth at the property.

Throughout her career, Imogen has built a reputation for delivering exceptional results, most recently being awarded the Excellence in Sales & Marketing Award at the 2023 Celebrate You – Tourism Employee Awards.

Rivers will oversee all aspects of the hotel’s sales and marketing strategy, focusing on expanding the hotel’s market reach for local, national and international audiences, driving revenue across multiple channels, and fostering key partnerships.

“I am incredibly excited to join Monarto Safari Resort and feel truly fortunate to be part of such a unique destination,” Rivers said. “With its stunning Hotel facilities overlooking pristine nature, it’s a privilege to help create unforgettable guest experiences in this remarkable setting.”

Reporting to Journey Beyond’s Head of Rail David Donald, Huck will take on the overall leadership of Monarto Safari Resort, he will ensure the smooth daily operations across the hotel, its function spaces, and guest services. 

“Huck’s experience in commercial strategy and his passion for innovation and bespoke guest experiences make him the ideal fit for Monarto Safari Resort, which will further cement Journey Beyond’s reputation as Australia’s leading experiential tourism group,” Donald said.

Huck will work full-time from Monarto Safari Resort and Rivers will split her time between Journey Beyond’s Adelaide headquarters on North Terrace and at Monarto.