OUR STORY
The problem we’re solving Why we exist
Started in 2018 and having served over 26,000 travellers, Roam is a travel technology company redefining how Africa—and the world—books travel. Built by industry veterans, our platform streamlines booking operations and simplifies complex international payments, reducing friction at the most critical point of the customer journey.
We take technology and security seriously, protecting our partners through regulated financial institutions, segregated accounts, 3D Secure card authentication, and supplier insolvency coverage underwritten by Lloyd’s of London.
Roam’s mission is to create smarter travel solutions for the customer of the future.
MEET THE LEADERSHIP TEAM
Dean Sheaffer
Chief Operating Officer
A seasoned leader with 30+ years in the US payments space, Dean’s deep understanding of the traditional payment ecosystem is augmented by his focus on emerging payments such as BNPL, Open Banking (A2A), cryptocurrencies and real-time payments systems.
Mary Masnari
Commercial Director
Qualified as a UK Chartered Accountant and having led the Finance teams of some of the world’s largest travel companies (Hotelbeds/HBX Group, Travel Corporation, Pure Escapes, Booking Holdings), Mary ensures Roam’s commercial underpinnings.
Oliver Brain
Chief Technology Officer & Co-Founder
Oliver leads Design & Technical Development. Qualified as an engineer and with a passion for systems, he is responsible for the core features that set Roam apart and at the forefront of the intersection between technology and travel.
Marcus Brain
Growth Director & Co-Founder
With strong market and strategic experience, Marcus draws on over 20 years of operating one of Africa’s leading travel businesses. This insight into the real world challenges of scaling travel businesses helps shape Roam’s strategic direction and growth ambitions.
Thomas Tait
Chief Marketing Officer
As an experienced Head Of Digital Strategy with a strong retail background, Thomas brings expertise in Management, User Experience Design and Business Development. He holds an MSc in Economics and International Marketing from Aalborg University and combines hands-on experience with strategic insight to drive growth.
MEET THE MANAGEMENT TEAM
Chris Purdy
Financial Manager
Chris oversees Finance at Roam. HIs experience in financial services, property, and international trade – as well as expertise in audits, budgeting, and corporate finance – ensures smooth execution and regulatory alignment supporting Roam’s mission of simplifying global travel transactions.
Lucia Brain
Client Development
With cross-sector project management experience, Lucia is skilled in managing client relationships and driving operational improvement. Highly systems-oriented, she works closely with the team to help Roam grow in both efficiency and scale as a travel payments powerhouse.
Josie Hauptfleisch
Business Development Manager
Josie is a sales and business development leader with 15+ years’ experience building client relationships, negotiating high-value deals, and driving revenue growth. Skilled in B2B account management, strategic planning, and CRM optimisation, she combines persistence and analytical insight with strong communication and interpersonal skills to deliver results and long-term partnerships
Lianne Kelly-Maartens
Marketing & Partnerships Manager
Passionate about Africa’s stories and opportunities, Lianne has spent 20+ years building brands that resonate globally. A natural innovator and relationship-builder, she combines commercial acumen with creative vision, driving meaningful partnerships, transformative growth, and lasting impact while staying rooted in authenticity, excellence, and forward-thinking leadership
Operations Manager
This role is currently available, please make contact for more information.
MEET THE OPERATIONS TEAM
Ikhona Njikelana
Account Manager
With a passion for seamless client experiences, Ikhona draws on her fintech and banking background as well as BCom in Information Systems, to support service delivery, coordination, and daily operations. She’s known for her problem-solving mindset, attention to detail, and drive for efficiency.
Dannielle Prins
Account Manager
Dannielle brings 10 years’ experience in tech support and finance, managing high-level accounts across multiple sectors. She applies her detailed focus, relationship skills, and customer success mindset to ensure smooth delivery and exceptional service for every client.
Jade Bailey
Account Manager
With a decade of experience across industries – from sustainable travel to cybersecurity – Jade combines a passion for purpose-driven tourism with a talent for client service. She’s known for her warmth, clarity, and dedication to delivering seamless, impactful experiences.
Sean Streak
Social Media Executive
Sean drives digital storytelling that connects travel and technology. With a background in content marketing, social strategy, and audience engagement, he transforms brand vision into authentic connections – supporting Roam’s mission to empower operators and travelers through seamless, borderless payment innovation.
Oratile Mogoeng
Financial Accountant
Oratile is a registered AGA(SA) with cross-industry SAICA training. With expertise in financial reporting and operational finance, she brings precision, discipline, and a collaborative, goal-driven mindset to support the integrity of Roam’s finance operations and strategic growth.
WORK FOR ROAM
Work for Roam
Roam is continually seeking the brightest talent to help reshape the travel industry, and at the heart of our business are our people: intelligent, optimistic, resilient, self-reflective.
