Travelodge, the UK’s leading budget hotel company, has announced the recent appointment of Brian Wallace as Chairman. Brian has a wealth of experience in the hotel industry and will take up the role with immediate effect. A qualified accountant, Brian has held senior executive roles with a number of companies, including Schlumberger, Ladbrokes and Hilton, as well as non-executive roles at Miller Group, Hays plc and Scottish & Newcastle plc.
Brian spent 12 years with Hilton, initially as Finance Director, before combining that role with Deputy Chief Executive. During that period, he played a pivotal role in strengthening the balance sheet, expanding the global presence of the Company and ultimately reunifying the Hilton brand through the landmark sale of the business to Hilton Hotels Corporation in America. Brian is currently a non executive director of FirstGroup plc.
Commenting on the announcement, Grant Hearn, Chief Executive of Travelodge, said: “I am really excited to welcome Brian as the new Chairman of Travelodge. He has extensive experience of the hotel industry which will be invaluable as we continue to grow the Travelodge brand and deliver on our successful growth strategy. I have known Brian for over 12 years and believe he will be a real asset to our Company.”
Brian Wallace commented on his appointment: “I am delighted to be joining Travelodge at an exciting time in its history. The management team did a great job last year in successfully achieving the financial restructuring of the business. I am really looking forward to working with Grant and his team as Travelodge continues to focus on serving its customers, with a significant room refurbishment programme due to be launched shortly.”
