International Volunteer HQ is powered by a global team of program managers, campus partnership leads, volunteer inquiry specialists, and support staff. Together, we support thousands of volunteers each year as they take part in responsible volunteer programs in more than 40 countries. Scroll down to meet the people who will help plan, support, and guide your journey.
Why Our Team Matters to Your Volunteer Experience
Volunteering abroad is a big decision. Our team is your first point of contact from the moment you inquire through to the day you arrive home. Every program manager on our team has personal travel experience in the regions they support, and most have volunteered themselves. When you book with International Volunteer HQ, you are not just booking a trip. You are getting a real person who knows your destination, your project, and what you need to feel prepared.
- Choose the right program for your goals, budget, and timing
- Prepare for travel with destination-specific pre-departure support
- Stay supported while you are overseas, 24/7
- Connect with other volunteers before, during, and after your program
- Return home with stories, skills, and connections that last
Leadership at International Volunteer HQ
HQ Travel Group is the parent organization behind International Volunteer HQ. Our leadership team brings decades of combined experience in travel, education, finance, and community development.
Business Development and Campus Partnerships
Our partnerships team works with universities, colleges, and organizations worldwide to create group and custom programs. If you are a faculty member, study abroad office, or program coordinator, these are the people who can help.
Marketing, Brand, and Creative
Our marketing team tells the stories behind the impact. They are the people creating the content, campaigns, and creative work you see across our channels.
Volunteer Program Managers
Program managers are the heart of the IVHQ experience. Each one looks after a specific region and is your direct contact from the moment you book. They work closely with our in-country teams to make sure every volunteer is prepared, supported, and set up for a meaningful experience.
Volunteer Inquiries
First contact, first questions, first steps. Our inquiries team helps you work out which program is right for you before you book.
Technology, Operations, and Office Support
Behind every smooth booking, every pre-departure email, and every payment is a team making sure things actually work. Our technology and operations crew keeps the engine running.
Frequently asked questions about the IVHQ team
International Volunteer HQ is led by CEO Sam Morrah and sits within HQ Travel Group. Daily volunteer program operations are run by Claire Chambers, Head of Volunteer Programs, supported by a team of program managers covering Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and the Pacific.
Our core team is based in New Zealand, where IVHQ was founded. Team members also work remotely. Our in-country local teams are based in each of the more than 40 destinations we offer programs in.
Yes. Once you book an IVHQ volunteer program, you are matched with a regional program manager who handles your pre-departure preparation, answers your questions, and stays in touch throughout your experience. Program managers are assigned by region (for example, our Asia, Africa, and Americas leads).
Our team has decades of combined experience in responsible travel, volunteer program management, international education, and community development. Many team members have been with IVHQ for five plus years, and several have volunteered on IVHQ programs themselves before joining the team.
Yes. Our volunteer inquiries team is your first point of contact if you want to chat through your options before committing. They can help you compare destinations, projects, and program dates based on what you are looking for.
Our Campus Partnerships team works directly with universities, colleges, and study abroad offices. Alyson Tapply handles broader business development partnerships. Group programs are supported by Merran Kenworthy.
