AECO’s secretariat is strengthened with Trine Krystad in the position of head of government affairs.
Trine will work towards authorities, agencies and consultation bodies and provide strategic advice to the organization, mainly from her office in Longyearbyen.
Trine has lived and worked in Svalbard for 30 years and been involved in the establishment of the Longyearbyen municipal council and the Svalbard Environmental Protection Fund. The last 10 years she has worked at Visit Svalbard focusing on sustainable destination and community development, served as deputy CEO been very involved in the establishment of Svalbard Cruise Forum.
What made you interested in the position?
– I know AECO from previous collaborations and was curious about the chance to work in an international organization, and contribute to finding good, long-term solutions to preserve the natural environment in the sea-based part of the tourism industry.
How will you use your background in your new position?
– I will bring my experience of the interface of private and public sector, development work, political processes, and dialogue with administration, authorities, and businesses. I’m committed to knowledge-based, responsible, and long-term solutions for the tourism industry, and I aim to continue contributing to green transition and collaboration, viewing the development of the expedition cruise industry in the context of environmental regulations and the importance of framework conditions.
How does it feel to get started?
– I’m starting this job with joy, excitement, and humility. There’s much for me to learn, and I hope to contribute with my experiences from management work and government.
With Trine in the secretariat, AECO once again has a representative based in Svalbard. This means that she also will serve as Svalbard representative and point of contact, having responsibility for operational tasks connected to issues on Svalbard.
