Anupam Narayan is out as president and CEO of Red Lion Hotels. In a terse announcement this afternoon from the Washington-based chain, Jon Eliassen was named interim head of the company. Narayan's departure was only explained by saying his "employment ended on Jan. 13."
I wish Narayan all the best. At Red Lion and Best Western before, I always found him to be a serious, thoughtful and creative lodging industry leader. Perhaps he left on his own accord, but it doesn't sound like it. I sure, however, he'll be sought by another hotel company or even a business outside of lodging. If the latter is the case, then it is a serious loss for the hotel industry.
We'll provide additional details as we learn of them.
Eliassen is an independent director on Red Lion's board.