FACE-2-FACE: Shane Riley

Director of International Sales, Virgin Voyages

1. What is your favourite part of your job?

I am very fortunate to have bagged my dream gig, combining my love of cruising with the incredible Virgin brand. My favourite part of my job is the reaction of our First Mates (travel agents) to our new way of taking to the seas.

2. What attracted you to a career in the cruise industry?

I was lucky enough to experience cruise holidays at a young age and I was always keen for other people to give it a try. There are so many misconceptions about cruises, I just wanted to help more people experience it.

3. What is the key to success in the cruise industry?

Ensure we match the right customer to the right ship/brand. There are so many options available and it’s important to listen to customers’ needs and make recommendations on what is best for them.

4. What is the biggest challenge facing the industry?

Personally, I think the biggest challenge (or opportunity) is to ensure we don’t leave anything in our wake. At Virgin Voyages, we are committed to delivering the cleanest fleet at sea. We’ve set ourselves on a course to deliver an “Epic Sea Change” for all, this extends to our sailors, our crew, our communities and the oceans.

5. What was your best famil?

My favourite trip was hosting 15 travel agents on board a cruise - none of them had sold cruise and they all had many misconceptions. We all had an amazing time and many of them have since moved into the cruise industry.

6. Advice for up-and-comers?

Educate and differentiate! All cruise lines have education tools that you should make the most of. Then, find a way to make your business stand out and give your customers a reason to come to you and not your competitors. This doesn’t mean the cheapest price, it means adding value through the experience you create.

7. How do you wind down a er a busy week?

I have a three-year-old son and I love spending quality family time together. Weekends consist of soccer tots, swimming or if I’m feeling really brave, a trip to a play centre!

8. When not at work, how do you spend your me?

Lots of family fun and lots of holidays. Living in the UK, I need to travel to find the sun. The Maldives is my favourite, I’ve been lucky to go twice.