Heike Naigur is a seasoned sustainability leader with more than 15 years of experience guiding Global Fortune 500 companies toward practical, lasting climate solutions. She’s also a proud Women Leading Travel & Hospitality corporate partner member. In this Member Spotlight, Heike shares insights into her professional passions and personal journey – including the woman who inspires her, how she leads with integrity and the advice she offers the next generation of women in the industry.

What’s the best book you’ve read recently?
“Saving Us: A Climate Scientist’s Case for Hope and Healing in a Divided World” by Katharine Hayhoe. It’s both deeply moving and incredibly practical.

What do you love most about the industry?
The global nature of our work, the diversity of operations and services, and the joy it brings to people. It’s dynamic, fast-paced and purpose-driven.

What’s something the community may be surprised to learn about you?
I’ve crossed the North Atlantic Ocean about 12 times on both research and commercial vessels.

What’s the toughest part of being in charge?
Keeping the team engaged and happy. Motivation is not a one-size-fits-all – it requires intention, care and constant tuning in.

What are your nonnegotiables when it comes to work-life balance?
Family events and sleep. Those are essential to my well-being.

What woman inspires you right now and why?
My supervisor. She is perceptive, kind and incredibly encouraging. Her leadership style is something I truly admire.

What is one industry trend you’re closely tracking and why?
Sustainable supply chains. They’re foundational to climate action and offer immense potential for measurable impact.

What is one thing you look for when interviewing a job candidate?
The ability to listen. It’s such an underrated yet powerful skill.

What’s something you learned about yourself in the past year?
That I can adapt easily and overcome adversity. Resilience has shown up in ways I hadn’t anticipated.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t get stuck – reach for the stars. And remember, the dots may not connect when you look forward, but they often do when you look back.

What values are most important to you as a leader?
Humility and integrity. They’re my compass, personally and professionally.

What’s the most important thing people should know about you?
I will never stop learning. Curiosity is what drives me forward.

What’s a tip you have for productively leading a hybrid team?
Take time to really get to know your team. Listen closely to their priorities and meet them where they are.

Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled to and why?
Italy – for the food, the landscapes, and the incredible history. It feeds all the senses.

What is the top item on your bucket list?
Raising a happy child. That, to me, is the ultimate success.

What do you do to recharge?
Travel and spend quality time with family and friends. Those moments restore me.

What is your biggest accomplishment?
Carving out a fulfilling career at the intersection of science, climate action and global strategy.

What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
Don’t hold back. Explore, take risks and lean into what excites you. But also recognize the value of family – it’s not either/or.

What gets you up in the morning?
My work. It’s not just a job; it’s a mission.

What do you like most about being a member of Women Leading Travel & Hospitality?
The community – connecting with other women leaders, the inspiring events and all the opportunities to grow and learn together.

 

Interested in connecting with women like Heike?

Apply today to become a Women Leading Travel & Hospitality member!