Red Roof CEO Joe Wheeling Changes Roles
Wheeling to Stay on as Member of Company’s Board of Directors
COLUMBUS, Ohio | Red Roof Inn has announced that it’s Chief Executive Officer, Joe Wheeling, will no longer serve as CEO effective April 30, 2009. Wheeling will remain with the company in a senior advisory capacity and a member of the company’s board of directors for two years and will oversee a smooth transition once his successor has been named. Red Roof will execute a national search for Wheeling’s replacement.
“We appreciate all that Joe has done to help Red Roof transition from Accor and strengthen the brand,” says Majid Mangalji, Chairman of the Board. “Joe is a remarkable leader and we look forward to his continued guidance in his new role on the board of directors.”
In just five years, Wheeling has been instrumental in placing Red Roof Inn at the top of the economy lodging segment. Since joining Red Roof, Wheeling has focused on reinventing Red Roof Inn through a $250 million national renovation program titled “Redesigned, Rededicated” as well as through the brand’s NextGen new build properties.
Under Wheeling’s tenure, Red Roof has upgraded many of its Inns across the country with state-of-the-art technology, renovated rooms and lobbies, and has put into play an integrated brand marketing communications program with promotions and savings that are especially key in today’s budget-conscious economy. Wheeling is credited with increasing brand awareness that has made the company even more attractive to investors and consumers which has translated to an increase in market share. In the last year following the acquisition Wheeling has successfully led the company through a transition from Accor to a stand alone company headquartered in Columbus, OH.
“I will be leaving as CEO of Red Roof at a time when the strategic direction of the company is on target and the financials are sound,” says Wheeling. “I am proud of what we’ve accomplished in such a short period of time.” Wheeling, is leaving Red Roof to commit more time to his family.
“The heavy lifting is done,” notes Wheeling. “We are now in the execution phase of our ambitious NextGen prototype as well as other initiatives that we know will excite our valued franchise owners, development community and guests. ”
Wheeling served as executive vice president for Accor North America and chief operating officer for Red Roof Inn from 1999 to 2007. Wheeling was named CEO when the company was acquired from Accor in September 2007.
About Red Roof | Red Roof is a leader in the economy hotel market with both franchised and corporate-owned properties, serving millions of guests each year. The company and its hotels are known for a warm and welcoming spirit, along with higher-end amenities at an economy price. With coast-to-coast locations, Red Roof has nearly 350 properties. Currently completing a $250 million renovation, every Red Roof will feature Smart-by-Design®, value-added amenities that are simple and economical, yet meet the needs of Red Roof’s most frequent guests. Red Roof recently unveiled its All-Inclusive King Room, offering guests an enhanced communication package with other top-flight room amenities. The Columbus, Ohio-based company has more than 4,500 employees. For more information or reservations, call 800.RED.ROOF (800.733.7663) or visit redroof.com.
