Australian Tamil Nirmal Saverimuttu appointed Virgin Voyages CEO

Sir Richard Branson, the eccentric British Tycoon, has announced his new CEO for Virgin Voyages – Virgin’s branch of adult-only cruise ships & luxury vacations.

Earlier in the month, Branson appointed Nirmal Saverimuttu, an Australian of Sri Lankan Tamil heritage, as Virgin Voyages new Chief Executive Office.

Born in Zambia and raised in Australia, Nirmal has lived in Sydney, London, and New York – where he served as Principal at Virgin Group (Richard Branson’s investment office).

Nirmal is part of the founding team of Virgin Voyages, which he joined in 2014
as chief commercial officer. He was instrumental in drafting the initial business plan and sourcing it’s multi-billion dollar start-up funding. In 2021 Nimal was made President and Chief Experience Officer, based out of the company’s headquarters in Florida.

“While I will miss the day-to-day, I believe it is the right time to step aside as CEO. Nimal is a great friend and experienced leader who lives and breathes the Virgin Voyage’s culture. I know he will help take this amazing brand and crew to new heights, and I look forward to continuing to support the leadership as Chairman,” said Tom McAplin, the founding Ceo.

As CEO he will head the brand’s global expansion after securing a whopping $861 million for Branson’s adults-only cruise line.

Virgin Voyages launched its first cruise ship In March 2020, and since has grown into a popular, industry award-winning cruise brand. Currently operating three ships – the Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady – the new investment will be used as part of their global expansion, which includes 27 new itineraries and 19 new ports of call across the world including the Caribbean and Australia.