Raising your hand for opportunity: Kevin’s EF journey
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16 years | 8 roles | 3 locations | 1 division
Kevin Amante’s EF journey began after a backpacking trip through Europe, when a conversation with his brother led him to explore a role as a Tour Consultant for EF Go Ahead Tours. Since then, he has built his career by taking on new roles and responsibilities while keeping the customer experience at the heart of his decision-making. From learning the business to growing into leadership, Kevin’s journey reflects the value of raising your hand, staying open to opportunity, and bringing the right attitude to every challenge.
In this Q&A, Kevin shares how unexpected conversations led to new opportunities, the leaders and experiences that shaped his career, and why the people at EF continue to inspire him after 16 years.
What did you study in school? How does that relate to what you're doing today?
I studied Sports Information & Communication and initially thought I might work in professional sports or behind the scenes at ESPN. All my work experience has been foundational in helping me understand, from different perspectives, what we create and why it is meaningful, as well as how every team contributes to our continued success.
How did you first find out about EF, and how did you start working here?
I was backpacking through Europe, and my brother met up with me for an epic two-week trip through the Irish countryside. On our majestic rides, I had time to reflect on what I may like to do with my life when I came back stateside. Coincidentally, he had just started dating someone who worked at EF, who would later become his wife, and suggested I speak with her when I got back about a job. Fresh off my recent Eurotrip, I couldn’t think of a better opportunity to speak about the transformative power of travel, and as the saying goes, the rest is history!
Can you tell us a little bit about your career trajectory? Where did you start, and how did you get to where you are today?
I have always worked in the Tours part of the business, taking something from every role and location with me. I do believe starting as a Tour Consultant taught me to look at things through our customers’ eyes, which I have always tried to keep front and center in my decision-making. In leadership, I have evolved into a generalist as a result of wearing many hats in specialist roles. This progression has given me a holistic view of what we create and the values we share with our customers. Today, I have the pleasure and honor to lead EF's newly formed Latin America hub in Panama City, which has experienced incredible growth in the past two years. I oversee land operations for EF's tour business in the region, which spans over 15 countries and includes regional offices in Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, Belize & the Dominican Republic.
How have job opportunities happened for you during your time at EF?
In most cases, opportunities have been unexpected, starting with informal conversations with colleagues about roles and whether I knew someone who might be interested. My response several times has been, “How about me?” You never know when or where an opportunity may arise, so you need to be ready to raise your hand and say yes, even if you have self-doubts.
Looking back over your time at EF, what are some pivotal moments that shaped your career path?
Early in my EF career, I had the opportunity to observe and learn from several strong leaders who are still with the company today. They demonstrated genuine passion for the product and a commitment to excellence, qualities I have tried to model in my own way. A pivotal lesson I learned early is that career progression doesn’t always happen when you expect or want it to. However, if you are consistent, collaborative, and have a great attitude, opportunities do arise.
Is there a specific moment or project that stood out as the most rewarding in your career?
I have been called into action as a Tour Director a few times. On one occasion, I found myself in Vancouver, a city I had never even visited, leading a group of adults. After dropping the group off at the hotel, I gave myself a crash course in navigating the city, culminating in a 12-mile walking loop that finished late in the evening.
The following morning, I led the group on a walking tour along the water from Granville Island to the hotel. One customer commented, “This is amazing. You really know this city!” I think it doesn’t matter who you are or what your qualifications may be: everyone can be a star, and customers will always remember how you make them feel.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part is the people at EF and their energy. I feed off this energy, and being surrounded by such passionate, thoughtful, and collaborative individuals is a real pleasure. I also truly enjoy developing staff and seeing them grow, not only as professionals but also as people.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
Recent world events have certainly affected our business and our customers. At the same time, what we do is more important than ever, and our customers need to experience it in person to truly feel and understand its impact. Resilience and the ability to keep pushing forward are critical during challenging times as we work toward a better future.
Throughout your career and across multiple roles, what keeps you passionate about working at EF?
Once again, the people. You’ll pick up on this whenever you visit an EF office, attend a global meeting, or even run into a coworker socially. While the travel perks, benefits and flexibility all contribute to a great work environment, without the people this would ultimately fall short. I champion the mantra that “attitude is everything” and that you choose what you decide to bring to work. I feel surrounded by many others who feel similarly.
Out of the countries you have lived in, which has been your favorite and why?
It’s a tough question because each stop along the way has brought amazing work and life experiences, as well as lifelong friendships. But if I must choose, I still remember how I felt when I first visited the Panama office five years ago. The passion, energy, and genuine welcome I have received throughout my time in Panama have made it the most rewarding chapter of my career so far. Even with the recent growth of the office, that feeling remains strong.
What does work-life balance mean to you? How have you been able to find that at EF?
I believe work-life balance is unique to each individual and dynamic by nature, so you need to be intentional about finding it. To me, it means finding an effective way to manage your responsibilities at work and at home. It is still a work in progress for me. I think it’s important to be accessible and present while you’re working, while also setting clear boundaries when you’re off. I also recommend being honest with yourself about when you are working and when you are not.
What makes working at EF different from other companies?
EF attracts a diverse group of people who are high-performing and have great character. Our staff truly care about what we do, embrace responsibility, and celebrate the impact of their contributions to EF’s mission.
Any advice for someone navigating their own career?
I recommend focusing on building your internal network in a way that works for you, but also not being afraid to break out of your comfort zone. Developing relationships outside of your close group of coworkers and friends will help broaden your perspective, and you never know what may come from. Also, the two things that are non-negotiables for me are having a good attitude and being as consistent as possible.
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About EF journey stories
No two EF careers are the same. People switch divisions, explore new functions, move across continents, or choose to stay and grow in the same area for decades. We’re purpose built to encourage entrepreneurialism, which means there’s always something new and exciting to work on—and you can do it all while staying within the same company. There are limitless opportunities. You’re free to steer your own course, and go as far and as high as your talent will take you. These are just some of those stories.