Great Rail Journeys names Dave Riley as new CEO
Great Rail Journeys, the York-based escorted tour and river cruise provider, has announced that Dave Riley will take over as CEO.
Riley – the company’s chief financial officer – has been appointed following a “rigorous selection process”, the operator said.
He joined the company in October 2018 and was initially responsible for the finance, IT and HR functions across the UK and US businesses, adding operations to his responsibilities in 2021.
Outgoing chief executive Peter Liney is stepping down, having been in the position since 2013. He said he was “leaving the team in good hands”, and was “looking forward to new challenges”.
A ‘new phase’ for Great Rail Journeys
Speaking about his new role, Riley said: “With Great Rail Journeys celebrating its 50th year in 2023, I am excited to be taking the helm as we enter a new phase of growth, delivering great experiences to our customers.
“The Great Rail Journeys family is already close to my heart, having worked in the business for over four years and – of course – being a Yorkshireman, I am proud to become CEO of a company that has made this region its home.
“I feel very fortunate to have worked so closely with Peter over the past four years and my thanks to him for all the support and guidance he’s given me. I’m excited to be leading the team on its journey ahead.”
Great Rail Journeys chairman Charles Gurassa added: “Dave has proven to be an outstanding leader since joining the business and his experience both with the company and in private equity made him the standout candidate.
“He brings deep financial, digital marketing and operational expertise to the role and under his guidance Great Rail Journeys has an exciting future ahead.”
In August, the operator unveiled new branding, designed “to provide a more contemporary, digitally friendly face”.
