Expedia has confirmed UK managing director Caroline Cartellieri has left the business after just 18 months with the company.
It is understood the shock departure took place in early-April but a news blackout has been in place until now.
An Expedia spokeswoman declined to give any further details regarding Cartellieri’s exit.
Responsibility for the UK end of the business will be taken on by Alex Zivoder, who will become senior vice president for Expedia Europe.
Cartellieri joined Expedia in November 2006 from retail chain Kingfisher where she was director of group commercial finance and previously head of strategy.
She also worked for consumer advice site Ciao.com and was co-founder and chief executive officer of eDelights.com.