O’Neill joined the operator, part of the Der Touristik UK group, 30 years ago as a sales consultant and has worked in a number of roles within the business, most recently as head of customer experience. 

She will report into Francis Torrilla, managing director of Der Touristik UK’s specialist travel division.

As a qualified neuro-linguistic programming practitioner and leadership coach, Jules Verne said O’Neill had used her skills to “improve dialogue and motivate teams” and recently offer staff the chance to enrol in a new coaching programme.

O’Neill said she would “relish this opportunity” to take the business forward “into a new era”.

“I’ve always been passionate about people, our staff, our customers and everyone associated with the business. I’m lucky to have a fantastic team around me and I will continue to promote an environment where everyone can flourish, thrive and reach their full potential,” she said.

"I am confident that this people-centred approach is the key to the future success and sustainability of the business.”