WILDERNESS GROUP HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS

TARRYN GIBSON

With over two decades’ experience in conservation tourism, marketing and communications, Tarryn has always been passionate about using the power of public relations (PR) to not only build brand awareness and ultimately sales, but to make a positive impact.

After graduating from Rhodes University with a BA Journalism & English, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Enterprise Management, she started her career in agency life, working on numerous exciting accounts such as Johnnic Magazine Publishing Division, including Elle and Longevity magazines, SA Fashion Week, Samsung and Exclusive Books, to name a few.

She moved on to land her dream job at then CC Africa (now &Beyond), and discovered an inspiring industry that combined her skills with her values and passion for conservation and community empowerment. In addition to driving the PR and Comms for various markets, she always found time to ensure the company’s impact projects and non-profit partner, Africa Foundation, were front and centre of all PR strategies.   

Keen to grow and experience new challenges, she then dipped her toes into the world of sales, working on the PR and Southern African sales for two global brands, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts and Destination Asia, before returning to &Beyond in a more senior PR role.   

When she joined Wilderness in April 2013 as Communications Manager, she was in awe of the company’s commitment to impact and its dedication to “walking the talk”, something that remains a vital motivator in her growth within the company.

As Group Head of Communications, she oversees the company’s global and regional PR and media relations, internal communications for over 3 000 staff, awards strategy and crisis comms, as well as assists the Impact team with their communication requirements, donor relations and fundraising activities. The marketing work behind promoting Wilderness’ Conservation Heroes campaign during COVID-19 remains a career highlight, and she is extremely proud to work for a company that helped so many vulnerable people during such a difficult time.

Enthusiastic, passionate and dedicated to all things Wilderness, Tarryn brings a diverse range of skills and lots of energy to her role, remaining hugely grateful for the ongoing support from the company’s talented PR, Media and Marketing teams.

“After 10 years at Wilderness, I am looking forward to this exciting new chapter, and to bring my strengths and purpose-led ambition to the table to help the company continue to grow and make the biggest positive impact possible”, says Tarryn.