Em Cook became a Backroads leader in 2023 after a career involving research, teaching maths and working in the outdoors. She specialized in Maths with Operational Research at university but has always loved being active, from skiing and cycling to running ultramarathons. Her transition to working in hospitality began with running a ski chalet in the French Alps; her work as a chef there stands her in good stead for preparing Backroads picnics! Em has worked throughout Europe but particularly loves leading trips in France.