Travelodge chief executive Jo Boydell has stepped down after 13 years with the group, as the company continues to revamp its safety measures following a sexual assault at one of its hotels.
Ms Boydell will be succeeded by chief financial officer Ray Reidy on an interim basis while the company searches for a permanent replacement.
Criticism Over Safety Incident
Ms Boydell faced heavy criticism for her handling of the incident and concerns over safety throughout the chain. Former prime minister Sir Keir Starmer intervened earlier this year, urging her to "seriously engage" with the Government on the issue after she cancelled a meeting with MPs.
A guest at a Travelodge in Maidenhead, Berkshire, was sexually assaulted by a man who had been given a key card to her room. Kyran Smith was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in prison in February following the attack in December 2022.
Interim Leadership and Next Steps
Mr Reidy stated: "We remain focused on the safety and wellbeing of our guests and will continue taking the actions necessary to strengthen the business."
He added: "We will also continue to engage proactively and constructively with Government and the wider hospitality industry on the issue of safety and security."
