About PEO Collab
Guest satisfaction is paramount.
We believe that clear operational design is more than an administrative necessity. It is the foundation for exceptional guest experiences. By architecting precise logistical systems behind the scenes, we translate complex local logistics into seamless, transformative journeys, allowing retreat leaders and tourism businesses to focus entirely on facilitation and guest connection.
Pyrenees Experiences & Operations Collaborative (PEO Collab), serves as an operational backbone for guides, retreat facilitators, educators, creatives, and experience creators in southwestern France. Our mission is to provide fractional operational leadership that empowers visionaries to scale their programs and reclaim their creative focus without the administrative risk or overhead of full-time staffing.
Clarity Rooted in Expertise
PEO Collab was founded by Sarah Newell an English-speaking operator deeply rooted in the rural life and mountain culture of Ariège and Aude in southwestern France. Sarah’s background combines academic research rigor with extensive public-sector leadership and hands-on outdoor operations:
With coursework in Information and Library Science from Drexel University, Sarah brings research capabilities and structured data management to experience design. This expertise drives the creation of research-backed, narrative-driven itineraries, from Cathar heritage routes to historical immersions. Her understanding of information design helps create systems for collecting and using data efficiently.
Information and Research Architecture
As former Director of Parks and Recreation in Killington, Vermont, Sarah managed multi-faceted department operating and capital budgets, supervised seasonal and full-time personnel, administered municipal facilities, and secured public grants. This experience translates into rigorous budget monitoring, clear standard operating procedures (SOPs), and operational oversight for every project.
Public-Sector Management & Fiscal Oversight
As Founder and Co-Owner of Athara Adventures in Ariège, Sarah curates and leads year-round outdoor and cultural excursions across southern France. Her work encompasses route risk assessments, booking administration, high-touch guest relations, and real-time contingency management in the field.
Ground-Level Outdoor & Hospitality Leadership
Community Partnerships & Credibility
Having served in board leadership roles, including Board Secretary for the Killington Pico Area Association, Sarah brings strategic credibility and a collaborative approach to building strong local vendor networks with caterers, transport providers, and accommodation hosts across Occitanie.
Risk Management & Safety Standards
Sarah holds formal certifications in Risk Management for Outdoor Programs (Viristar), BICP Ride Leader, and Red Cross First Aid & CPR, ensuring that safety protocols and emergency action plans are integrated into every itinerary.
Operations Should Support Your Vision—Not Consume Your Time
Rooted in the Pyrenees
Positioned specifically in Occitanie, PEO Collab combines an understanding of rural southwestern France with an international perspective. Whether architecting bespoke cultural journeys or acting as your on-demand Operations Director, we bring grounded authority, research-backed authenticity, and logistical clarity to every partnership.
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Submit the inquiry form to initiate a consultation; a travel specialist will respond promptly to demonstrate how these solutions enhance your next journey.