Visit London has appointed Travelodge chief executive Grant Hearn to its board.

Hearn, previously managing director of both Hilton Group and Travel Inn, and chief executive of Marriott, strengthens the hotel sector’s representation on the tourism body’s board.

Visit London chief executive James Bidwell said: “I am delighted with Grant’s appointment. [His] entrepreneurial flair, business acumen and deep industry knowledge will further strengthen our Board as we make a further step change in the build up to London 2012.”

Hearn, who also sits on the London Skills and Employment Board and is a member of  the British Hospitality Association’s ‘senior’ board, added: “I am very excited about joining what is by far and away the most effective tourism body in the UK.

“How we position and drive the London offer now and beyond the 2012 Olympics is key to the long term success of this country’s tourism offer.”

The lead up to the Beijing 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Games and handover to London will be a major focus for Visit London this year.

The China in London festival commences next month and will culminate with the Beijing Olympic Torch Relay across London on 6 April.

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By Eddy Baker

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