SNCF Voyages Italy names new MD

SNCF Voyages Italia, a subsidiary of French rail group SNCF, has named Caroline Chabrol as managing director as the group prepares to roll out domestic high-speed services in Italy from 2026.

A French native now based in Milan, Chabrol will oversee the group’s expansion into the Italian domestic market, which will see the introduction of 13 daily high-speed TGV services, as well as the resumption of a Paris-Milan service.

The appointment follows the group’s previously announced expansion plans, which are set to rival local players Trenitalia and the privately-owned Italo. This includes the progressive rollout of high-speed services powered by its new TGV M trains between Turin, Milan, Rome and Naples, as well as services between Turin and Venice.

Chabrol has spent 20 years working in the rail sector, including the last 13 years with SNCF, where she has held several roles, most recently serving as project manager, international developments, for SNCF Mobilités.

SNCF Voyages Italia said Chabrol will lead the company during “a phase of important development” as it seeks to further expand its team in Italy and create a stronger brand presence in the country.

Commenting on her appointment, Chabrol said: “I am joining our subsidiary SNCF Voyages Italia with great enthusiasm, aware of the importance of actively participating in the development of the rail mobility offer in Europe and to further strengthen the attractiveness of rail for long-distance travel.

“The entry of SNCF Voyages Italia into the high-speed rail market in Italy will help to expand the possible solutions for travellers,” she added.

SNCF Voyages Italia currently operates a Paris-Turin-Milan service under the TGV INOUI brand.