Branded hotel operator, CHE Hotel Group PLC (the Group) today announces that Michael Prager has been appointed as Chief Executive following the announcement, on 7th June 2006, that David Cook is retiring at the end of November.

Michael Prager will take up his new role immediately and David Cook will remain as an Executive Director until 30th November to work with Michael to effect a full handover.

Michael Prager had been the Chief Operating Officer of the Group, having become an Executive Director on June 19th 2006. He first joined the board as a Non Executive Director in November 2002.

Michael Prager’s career has focused on building high performing branded businesses in the hospitality and tourism sector. He has previously held a number of senior positions including Managing Director of Utell International, at the time the world’s largest reservation and distribution provider, as well as Senior Vice President of Sales in InterContinental Hotels and Resorts and Vice President Operations for Radisson Europe. Prior to joining the Group on 19th June 2006 Michael was Chairman and Managing Director of the consultancy firm Delta Squared Performance Improvements Ltd.

Peter Catesby, Chairman, said ‘After conducting a full search process for a replacement for David, I am pleased to report that Michael stood out as the ideal candidate. His wide experience in the hospitality industry, coupled with his knowledge and understanding of the Group, as it continues to move from being a defensive survivor to one of exciting growth, was at the forefront of our decision’.

Michael Prager, Chief Executive, commented ‘I am excited about the opportunity to take the Group through its current transformation and into a period of significant growth and development in the future’.
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