The boss of Travelodge is stepping down after a decade in the role at the budget chain.
Grant Hearn is moving on from his role as chief executive, the company announced today.
An external search for a new chief executive has started and Hearn will remain in his role as through this transitional period.
Hearn led Travelodge as chief executive from 2003 until July 2010 when he was appointed to the position of chairman. He was asked to return as chief executive last year to oversee the company’s financial restructuring.
He said: “Travelodge has been an integral part of my life over the past ten years and this has been an incredibly tough decision for me to make.
“Now that Travelodge has a solid foundation under new committed ownership and is one of the UK’s most recognised brands, I feel comfortable that the company is in a strong and secure position for me to move on.”
Chairman Brian Wallace said: “Grant has been an outstanding leader for Travelodge. Under his leadership, the brand has been repositioned from a roadside hotel operator to being one of the UK’s leading hotel brands. The Company’s portfolio has more than doubled in size and today Travelodge is a household name with an exceptional digital presence.
“Grant leaves behind an extremely capable team, one which is already working on building the next exciting growth phase for Travelodge.
“On a personal note, I have known Grant for over 12 years and I wish him every success for the future. I am very grateful that Grant will continue as Travelodge’s CEO through this transitional period.”