Travelodge chief executive Joanna Boydell has abruptly stepped down after four years in the role as the budget hotel chain overhauls its safety procedures following a sexual assault at one of its hotels.
The company announced that finance boss Ray Reidy will replace Boydell on an interim basis as chief executive with immediate effect.
Boydell's departure comes after Travelodge faced severe criticism over security failures surrounding an attack on a female guest who was sexually assaulted after staff handed a room key card to an unauthorised man.
Kyran Smith was jailed for seven and a half years for the assault, which took place in December 2022 at the Maidenhead branch of Travelodge in Berkshire. Smith obtained entry to the room after lying to hotel staff, claiming he was the victim's boyfriend.
Following the attack, Travelodge sparked further outrage by offering the victim a £30 refund. The hotel chain later issued an apology for the offer, acknowledging that it was inappropriate under the circumstances.
Boydell was asked to meet members of parliament and peers to discuss the Maidenhead incident and Travelodge's broader security procedures. She faced intense criticism after cancelling a planned meeting with MPs, leading Sir Keir Starmer to call on her to "seriously engage" with the Government.
Security review and updated safety policies
Reporting of the Maidenhead assault prompted additional guests to come forward with reports of security concerns at Travelodge hotels across the country. In response, the chain launched an internal review into its safety processes alongside an independent review conducted by senior barrister Paul Greaney KC.
Travelodge confirmed that internal reviews remain ongoing as revised safety protocols are rolled out. Under the new security measures, staff are strictly prohibited from confirming to third parties whether a guest is staying at a hotel, and explicit permission from guests is now required before issuing any additional or replacement room keys.
The hotel operator has also implemented a new staff training programme developed in conjunction with an expert on Violence Against Women and Girls.
Interim chief executive Ray Reidy said: "We remain focused on the safety and well-being of our guests and will continue taking the actions necessary to strengthen the business. We will also continue to engage proactively and constructively with government and the wider hospitality industry on the issue of safety and security."
Travelodge chairman Stephen Shurrock welcomed the interim appointment and thanked the outgoing chief executive. Shurrock said: "We are delighted that Ray Reidy has agreed to serve as Interim CEO. This announcement does not change anything about our focus on safety and security. On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Jo for her dedication to Travelodge over the last 13 years."
Financial results and trading performance
Boydell originally joined Travelodge as chief financial officer in 2013 before taking over as chief executive in May 2022. Her resignation comes as the company published its latest half-year financial results.
Travelodge reported that underlying earnings for the first half of the year rose to £47.9 million, up from £47.3 million in the same period a year earlier. Total revenue increased by 4 per cent to reach £491.3 million.
The business benefited from a strong summer of events, including pop star Harry Styles performing at Wembley Stadium and the London Marathon, which delivered a "record revenue night for London". However, Travelodge noted that profit growth was held back by "significant cost pressures".
