EasyHotel, the owner, developer, operator and franchisor of 'super budget' branded hotels, has today announced the appointment of Guy Parsons (pictured) as Chief Executive Officer with effect from 10 August 2015.
Parsons spent seven years working for Accor SA as the Director of Operations, Sales and Marketing of Novotel UK. He joined Whitbread in 1997 as Marketing Director for Travel Inn before being promoted to Sales and Marketing Director for the Whitbread Hotel Company and subsequently, Managing Director of TGI Fridays.
He joined the Travelodge Board in 2004 and was promoted to Chief Executive Officer in 2010, leading the successful growth of the business to over 500 hotels in the UK, Ireland and Spain.
The company has also announced that Simon Champion has stepped down from his role as Chief Executive Officer to pursue other interests.
Jonathan Lane, Chairman said, 'I am delighted to welcome Guy as Chief Executive Officer. As an experienced chief executive in the hotel industry, he is ideally suited to advance the easyHotel brand. Guy's hotel, marketing and development skills will be a great addition to the senior management team at easyHotel.
'Having led the company during key stages of its development from a privately-owned business through its IPO in 2014, the board thanks Simon for his contribution.'
Guy Parsons added, 'I am delighted to be joining the business as Chief Executive. easyHotel has a strong brand and clear strategy and I am looking forward to leading the Company as it grows and delivers for its customers, its people, its franchise partners and its shareholders.'
Simon Champion commented, 'Since joining easyGroup in 2013, under my tenure easyHotel has been transitioned from being family office owned business to being an independent AIM company with a small and loyal leadership team. The business has solid foundations for growth based on sound franchises and a developing freehold portfolio. I believe the business is in good shape, and it is now time for me to step aside to pursue other interests. I wish the business well for the future.'