The group’s overhauling its safety procedures following a sexual assault at one of its hotels.
29 year old Kyran Smith, from Staines, was jailed for 7.5 years after being given a key card to a woman’s room in Maidenhead in Berkshire in 2022.
The company says it’s since changed its policy and has appointed Ray Reidy as interim CEO.
Travelodge statement:
Travelodge announces today that it has appointed Ray Reidy, as Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Group with effect from today. Joanna Boydell stepped down as Chief Executive Officer of the Group on August 17, 2026.
Ray Reidy will also continue in his existing role as Chief Financial Officer until such time that an interim Chief Financial Officer has been appointed. He has decades of experience in CFO and senior leadership roles and brings a strong track record of delivery. He has been CFO at Travelodge since August 2025, having held the position on an interim basis since April 2025.
Prior to joining Travelodge he worked across several different sectors and ownership structures, including RS Group plc and Mars Petcare.
The Board has commenced a formal search for a permanent Chief Executive Officer.
Stephen Shurrock, Chairman, said:
“We are delighted that Ray Reidy has agreed to serve as Interim CEO. He brings a strong track record of delivery and will have the full support of the Board and the wider management team as Travelodge continues to deliver its strategic priorities. Ray is an experienced CFO across different sectors and ownership structures, including RS Group plc and Mars Petcare. 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.”
