Patrick Ziemnik's Profile

Primary Function: Oversees global field operations across 38 countries while leading U.S. school group travel sales, and training for customer-facing teams

Professional Summary Patrick Ziemnik is Leader of Global Operations at Rustic Pathways and the approval authority named in the company’s activity standards. He joined Rustic Pathways in 2012 as a Program Leader and served as Country Director in Mongolia and Tanzania. A Harvard graduate, he ran programs in the field before taking responsibility for the standards that govern them.

He now oversees Rustic Pathways country teams worldwide, leads U.S. school partnerships, and trains Program Leaders.

Core Responsibilities

Global Operations

• Oversees country teams and field operations across 38 countries
• Ensures safety protocols and program standards are maintained globally
• Manages relationships with in-country directors and local staff
• Contributes to new program development and destination expansion

U.S. School Group Sales

• Develops partnerships with U.S. schools for custom group programs
• Conducts sales presentations and program consultations
• Manages proposal development and contract negotiations
• Maintains relationships with 100+ school partners

Training & Development

• Trains and onboards all Personal Travel Advisors
• Develops training curriculum for Program Leaders
• Manages ongoing professional development programs
• Ensures consistent service standards across all teams

Qualifications

• BA in Social Studies — Harvard College
• Former Country Director: Mongolia and Tanzania
• Programs led: Mongolia, Tanzania, Morocco, Balkans, New Orleans
• Languages: English (native)
• Certifications: CPR, First Aid

Key Achievements

• 12+ years building Rustic Pathways’ global operations
• Established partnerships with Jane Goodall Institute Tanzania, Save the Rain
• Board Member, Cleveland Solar Cooperative
• Developed training programs used by 50+ staff members

Direct Contact For:

• Global operations and country team inquiries
• U.S. school group travel programs
• Custom program development for schools
• Staff training and development questions
• Partnership opportunities