Reinforcing the support provided to energy and marine sectors, ATPI, the global leader in travel management, has established a new leadership role, designed to enhance client relationships and facilitate continued global growth.
Leading the strategic direction of ATPI’s international energy division, Zara Higgins has been announced as head of energy. Zara will utilise her extensive experience to drive ATPI’s energy strategy across key international markets.
Aided by over a decade of experience in travel management, Zara has established a history of delivering streamlined travel solutions by optimising booking systems, improving crew management, and adapting to the evolving needs of energy sector clients. In her new role, Zara will continue to apply her strategic and leadership skills that have driven ATPI’s growth within the UK energy market - success she will now replicate on a global scale.
Aligned with Zara’s new role, ATPI will be supplemented by two additional changes to its senior leadership team. Current US managing director Judy ‘JP’ Peplinski will be moving into a new position as head of global strategy, energy division. JP will be succeeded by Ettienne de Swardt, stepping into the role of managing director USA from his current position as senior director of sales and account management of North America.
From left, head of global strategy energy division Judy JP Peplinski; head of energy Zara Higgins; managing director USA Ettienne de Swardt
These appointments reflect ATPI’s continued expansion throughout the energy industry, whether traditional crude oil and gas operators or those in renewable sectors. The company is renowned for its innovative technologies and ability to navigate the unique operational demands of the energy industry. Thanks to the leadership of Zara, JP, and Ettienne, ATPI has seen significant growth across multiple regions and sectors.
By aligning its leadership structure with market opportunities, ATPI is positioning itself for continued success and investment in its energy division throughout 2025 and beyond.
Zara commented: “The energy sector, like the corporate travel sector, is constantly evolving and diversifying, and I am privileged to be taking on the role of Head of Energy at such an exciting time. I have been fortunate to work with energy companies for the last 14 years, having learned so much along the way, and continuing to learn more every day. Therefore, taking on this role allows me to further immerse myself into two industries that I am incredibly passionate about, energy and travel!
"JP and I have worked closely together over the years, and I have personally learned a lot from her. Together, we have navigated clients through challenging times, celebrated many new client wins, retentions, and expansions, and as a team, have made significant head way with regards to our global operational and technology solutions to ensure we continue meeting the needs of the energy sector, now, and in the future. ATPI understands the complexities associated with travel in this sector, and with our extensive expertise, deep understanding of the industry, technology, sustainability, and duty of care solutions, we are well positioned to support the industry as it continues to grow and diversify. JP, Ettienne, and I are aligned on the future of ATPI Energy, and we look forward to putting our global strategy into practice and further supporting an industry that we have partnered with for decades."