Virgin Voyages elevates international sales team with expanded rolesVirgin Voyages elevates international sales team with expanded roles

Following record international sales, Virgin Voyages expanded international sales roles including the formal appointment of John Delaney as senior commercial advisor to now inform sales and commercial performance across all markets.

He previously focused on the UK, Europe and Australia.

And Matt Lebbern, formerly head of European sales, was made director of sales, Europe & new markets, reporting to Delaney. Since joining Virgin Voyages in April 2023, he has been at the helm of the company's global expansion strategy. In addition to the 11 countries added to the sales portfolio in 2024, Virgin has its sights on at least six additional markets throughout 2025.

Lebbern will be supported by Kayleigh Hilton, who joined the team earlier this year as business development executive. 

Ben Soane, Luke Day, Chris Woodcock, SJ Walker

Ben Soane becomes sales executive, Europe and new markets, in a dedicated sales support function. He'll report to Lebbern. Previously Sloane was the driving force behind Virgin Voyages at Voyage Store (Aviate), and most recently he moved to the cruise line's Brilliant Support team.

Luke Day, who has been at the helm of Virgin Voyages' trade engagement strategy and first mate activations, was promoted to senior manager, global trade engagement, working across all markets to unify the first mates strategy across the North America and international markets.

Related:Virgin Voyages expands sales to eight more European countries

Chris Woodcock was appointed manager, international Brilliant Support, after spearheading operational developments within the international sales team. He will continue to champion change within the sales function, ensuring Virgin Voyages' commitment to being 'brilliant to do business with.'

SJ Walker, director of UK sales, broadens her role to take on total overall responsibility for trade distribution channels within the UK, including strategy and account development to continue driving record growth. She'll report to Delaney.

 Moves support further expansion

These changes are designed to 'strengthen our footprint, support our growth and continue our international expansion,' Virgin Voyages CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu said. 'Thanks to this team's dedication, we’ve seen tremendous growth and know that with this structure, the skies are the limit. As we look ahead to wave season, we know this team will play a crucial role with our first mate community and our overall success.'