Orient-Express Hotels president and chief executive Paul White has resigned from the company and stood down from the board of directors for personal reasons.
Board chairman Bob Lovejoy has stepped in as interim chief executive while a replacement for White is sought.
No further explanation was given by the company for White’s departure after 20 years with the company.
Lovejoy said: “The board appreciates the good work Paul White has done both in this role as president and chief executive officer and indeed during his other roles in his 20 years with the company.
“He has managed the company through a difficult economic period, and has positioned Orient-Express for renewed growth.
“We understand and agree with his decision to step down for personal reasons. We wish him well in his future endeavours.”
Lovejoy, a directer for 11 years, added: “Orient-Express is fortunate to have a strong operating management team, and the board is confident the company will not miss a beat during this transitional period.
“Financial results for the first quarter of 2011, which included RevPAR growth for the fifth consecutive quarter, demonstrated the recovery of the luxury travel market and the financial progress the company has made.
“We expect to continue this positive momentum, and as interim chief executive I will work to ensure we remain focused on profitable growth and building long-term shareholder value.”