Image: Philip Mengel takes over as interim CEO

Philip Mengel has been named interim chief executive officer of Orient-Express Hotels as the luxury hotel group and travel operator continues its search for a permanent appointment.

J Robert Lovejoy, chair of the Orient-Express board, had served as CEO in an acting capacity following the resignation of former president and CEO Paul White in July 2011.

Lovejoy - who will continue as board chair - said: "The two roles added up to a heavy workload, and I appreciate the board's understanding of my decision to focus on my role as chair."

Mengel added: "The search has taken longer than we had originally anticipated when Bob agreed to serve as interim CEO in addition to chair, and we have now decided once again to separate these two roles."

Details: www.orient-expresshotelsltd.com