John van Vliet

Arctic Field Operations Lead | Expedition Leader

Nationality: Dutch

Expertise:

Arctic wildlife risk management · Operational planning & coordination · Polar bear safety · Advanced Zodiac operations · Environmental situational awareness

Field Operations:

Expedition leadership · Bear guard operations · Zodiac command & maintenance oversight · Kayaking · Snorkeling · Arctic ski travel

John van Vliet is an Arctic field operations lead and expedition leader with over 15 years of experience working independently in technical field environments. His background in structured outdoor operations and safety-critical fieldwork shaped his strong focus on preparation, oversight, and risk management.

In the spring of 2022, he co-founded Wild-Encounters together with Debbie, combining operational discipline with wildlife expertise to create a company focused on Arctic wildlife safety and expedition support.

Johnny specializes in Arctic wildlife risk management, operational planning, and field coordination. His strength lies in maintaining oversight in dynamic environments where weather, terrain, wildlife presence, and logistical factors constantly interact. He ensures that field operations remain controlled, efficient, and compliant with local regulations and environmental standards.

Within Arctic deployments, Johnny plays a key role in:

• Operational planning and execution

• Wildlife risk mitigation and bear guard coordination

• Advanced Zodiac operations and vessel oversight

• Safety protocols and logistical structuring

• Environmental situational awareness

His technical background allows him to take responsibility for Zodiac command and maintenance oversight, ensuring vessels meet operational and regional requirements under demanding conditions.

Beyond field deployment, Johnny is actively involved in organizing and facilitating expeditions based on client objectives. Whether supporting scientific, wildlife-focused, expeditionary, or operational missions, he ensures that logistical structure, safety planning, and environmental considerations are aligned with the goals of the assignment.

Whatever the objective, Wild-Encounters can organize, coordinate, and facilitate expeditions tailored to the specific needs of the client.

Outside of professional operations, Johnny continues exploring remote environments overland in his self-built Land Rover 127 expedition camper