&Beyond has announced the appointment of Mark Wheeler as regional managing director – East Africa and South Asia.

He will assume the role from May 1st 2013 and will be based in the Nairobi office.

He is tasked with accelerating the growth of &Beyond’s business, presence and capabilities in these regions.

After a lengthy period of consolidation and detailed planning, &Beyond is now ready to grow its brand in East Africa and South Asia to its full potential - across both lodging and touring.

Wheeler will be working with the teams in Kenya, Tanzania, India, Bhutan and Sri Lanka to fulfil the ambitious growth objectives laid out in a three year strategic plan.

He left A&K in late 2012 and embarked on some travels including an overland trip through East and Southern Africa with his wife and two young children.

“Once I had made the decision to return to tourism, out of the many options I was lucky enough to be presented with, I was drawn to &Beyond because I felt it could offer me the personal challenge I was looking for and where I felt my experience could be best utilised,” explained Wheeler.

“It was the strong service ethic, the over-riding conviction in conservation, and the unrivalled lodge and camp offering across East Africa which attracted me to &Beyond.

“It also presents me with an opportunity to promote and bring my service vision to new, exciting destinations such as India, Sri Lanka and Bhutan.

“&Beyond’s guest and guide focused ethos, coupled with the vision and leadership of Joss Kent were an unbeatable combination, and I am both honoured to have the opportunity to work at such an inspiring company as &Beyond, as well as excited to return to the wonderful world of tourism after an extended break.”