Great Rail Journeys has carried out strategic promotions in its US and UK divisions, reflecting a significant 30% growth.
- Sarah McMullen steps up to director of people, driving development and talent management across continents.
- Liz Owens moves to senior vice-president, general manager of Vacations By Rail, after fostering double-digit growth.
- Missy Paul is appointed director of independent operations to expand the programme of Vacations By Rail.
- Group CEO Dave Riley highlights the rapid business progress driven by these crucial appointments.
Great Rail Journeys has implemented pivotal leadership promotions within its US and UK operations, underscoring its ambition amid a 30% growth surge. This move signifies a deliberate focus on fortifying leadership to accommodate and capitalise on emerging opportunities in rail travel across these regions.
Sarah McMullen has ascended from her role as head of people to the position of director of people, where she is tasked with spearheading the development and management of talent across two continents. Her appointment reflects the company’s strategic initiative to bolster its workforce amidst considerable expansion, ensuring that the team remains agile and well-equipped to tackle future challenges.
Demonstrating her prowess in driving business growth, Liz Owens has been promoted to senior vice-president, general manager of Vacations By Rail. Since her appointment in 2022, Owens has been instrumental in the brand’s impressive double-digit growth. In her new role, she will continue to oversee the US sales and service teams, leveraging her expertise to sustain and accelerate this upward trajectory.
Missy Paul takes on the role of director of independent operations at Vacations By Rail, with a clear mandate to expand the programme. Her prior experience as head of operations has prepared her for this critical position, wherein she will focus on enhancing the operational scope and efficiency of the programme. This role is key to supporting the company’s growth strategies and addressing the increasing demand for rail travel.
Group chief executive Dave Riley expressed his satisfaction with these appointments, emphasising the blend of retaining long-serving team members like Missy Paul, while also advancing newer talents such as Liz Owens and Sarah McMullen. Riley stated, “I am really pleased to see the continued development of our teammates who are driving the business forward at a rapid pace.” His comments reflect the company’s commitment to nurturing leadership skills and securing a robust operational posture as it navigates the next phase of its journey.
These strategic promotions align with Great Rail Journeys’ commitment to leveraging internal talent for sustained growth.
