Yorkshireman Riley, who joined the business in October 2018, took over from Peter Liney on Monday (5 September); GRJ said the transition had been planned "for some time" and followed a "rigorous selection process".
GRJ said in the top role, Riley would be tasked with driving an "ambitious global growth agenda" at GRJ, which offers more than 200 independent and escorted rail and river cruise holidays in 50-plus countries.
The business also owns Chicago-based rail holidays brand Vacations by Rail. GRJ was acquired by mid-market private equity firm Duke Street in July 2018.
Riley was initially responsible for finance, IT and HR functions across GRJ’s UK and US business, and took on additional responsibility for operations last year.
Prior to joining the Yorkshire-based firm, he held leadership positions in the UK, Europe and US across a variety of businesses.
Charles Gurassa, GRJ chair, said Riley had proven his "outstanding" leadership credentials over the past four years. "His experience both with the company and in private equity made him the standout candidate," said Gurassa.
"He brings deep financial, digital marketing and operational expertise to the role, and under his guidance Great Rail Journeys has an exciting future ahead."
Gurassa also paid tribute to Liney. "He has successfully led the business for nine years, spearheading its expansion into the US and Australia, broadening our offering into river cruising, and steering the company through the challenges of the global pandemic. We wish him every success in his next endeavours."
Liney, who has worked in travel for more than 30 years, said it had been a privilege to lead GRJ and latterly Vacations by Rail. "I am leaving the team in good hands," he said. "And for me personally, I’m looking forward to new challenges and leveraging my expertise, not just in travel but also in family and private equity businesses."
Riley said he was exciting to be taking the helm as the business enters "a new phase pf growth" ahead of its fiftieth anniversary year next year. "The Great Rail Journeys family is already close to my heart, having worked in the business for more than four years and – of course – being a Yorkshireman, I am proud to become chief executive of a company that has made this region its home," he said.
"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."
