As the first female MD, Debbie hopes women will see they can be “leaders in this world too.”
Debbie O’Neill has been appointed Managing Director at Jules Verne, the small group, escorted tour specialist, effective from 1 June 2023.
Taking over from Francis Torrilla, who held the role for five years, Debbie is the first female Managing Director in the company’s 44 year history. Appointed General Manager last year (April 2022), Debbie has led Jules Verne through a very successful 12 months including launching to the trade – a move well received by the travel industry.
Speaking about her appointment to Managing Director and her passion for creating a successful business at Jules Verne, Debbie comments: “2023 has been great for Jules Verne and everyone across the business. Not only have bookings been strong but since launching to the trade, there has been a renewed energy in the office, it’s been wonderful to see.”
Francis Torrilla, Managing Director of the Specialist Businesses says, “Debbie’s experience in the business and the skills she has acquired in helping people to achieve their full potential makes her the perfect candidate to take Jules Verne on its next voyage.”
As a self-confessed lover of people, Debbie is passionate about nurturing talent through support and empowerment. Debbie offers coaching and mentoring for her team at their London office as part of her NLP qualifications and, since April 2022, has advocated for a people-focused management ethos where people can flourish and thrive.
Debbie O’Neill continues: “I’m thrilled to be stepping into the role of Managing Director. As the first female MD, I’m really looking forward to bringing a new outlook and perspective to everything we do. I will reimagine the future with a focus on connecting people, while ensuring I build a strong and successful organisation for our guests, team members and partners who we value so dearly. Furthermore, I hope that this appointment shows other women that they can be leaders in this world too – I truly believe anything is possible.”
To further cement Debbie’s people-centric ethos, she has recently been appointed as Personal Development Director for AWTE. Commenting on the appointment, Debbie explains “I’m excited to be able to bring support to its members too in the form of educational webinars and events to build a meaningful & supportive community.”
Debbie’s career history at Jules Verne:
- Joined as sales consultant in 1990
- Next role sales manager in 1998
- Next role sales & customer services manager in 2007
- Next role Head of Customer Experience in 2016
- Appointed General Manager in April 2022 and launched the business to the trade
- 1 June 2023 – will take over as Managing Director
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For further press information, please contact:
Emma Arthurs
Rooster.
T: 07584 027638 | +44 (0)203 440 8930
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About Jules Verne:
Established in 1978, Jules Verne’s innovative small group escorted tours offer authentic travel with a twist via air, road, rail and river. Every Jules Verne traveller is guaranteed a unique, quality experience within a small group of around 15 like-minded companions.
The spirit of Jules Verne is to seek out fascinating adventures around the world. Jules Verne works thoughtfully with local tour guides and communities to craft tours which reveal the true heart of each destination.
Jules Verne tours are packed with special events and little extras. Fully ABTA and ATOL bonded and winner of many travel awards, our experts organise every detail to the highest standard so customers can book in complete confidence.
For more information, or to book with Jules Verne, call 020 3533 3722 or visit www.vjv.com.
