Gerald LawlessTravelodge Hotels Ltd, the UK’s fastest growing hotel chain has today announced the appointment of Gerald Lawless, Executive Chairman of the Dubai based hotel management company Jumeirah Group; as a Non Executive Director. He will join the Board with effect from 3rd May 2011. Gerald has been with the Jumeirah Group, which is owned by Dubai Holding since 1997. Over the last 14 years, Gerald has spearheaded the Company to become one of the most distinctive and innovative hospitality groups worldwide. He has also been responsible for launching the most famous hotel in the world, the seven star Burj Al Arab. Prior to joining the Jumeirah Group, Gerald had a 23-year career with Forte Hotels, where he managed hotels in the UK, South Africa, Ireland and the Caribbean. In 1991 he established Forte’s Middle East office in Dubai, and oversaw growth in the region from three to twenty hotels within six years.