Whitbread boss makes way for easyJet chief

3rd Mar 2010 14:07

"Will you still need me when I'm 64?" sang the Beatles in 1967. The answer from Premier Inn and Costa Coffee owner Whitbread to chief executive Alan Parker is "no".Parker will retire from the UK's largest hotel and restaurant group on 25 November, his 64th birthday, after six years at the helm.He makes way for 52-year-old easyJet boss and former RAC chief Andy Harrison, who joins as chief executive designate on 1 September."Alan has made an invaluable contribution to the growth and development of Whitbread during his six years as chief executive," said chairman Anthony Habgood. "Under his leadership Whitbread has grown to become the UK's leading hospitality company with a strong focus on value for money brands. Andy is joining a company in good health and with excellent prospects for future growth." Harrison announced his intention to step down at Europe's fourth largest airline last December, but didn't say what he planned to do next.