Stephen Howard will leave Ovolo Hotels in April as the company’s group director of marketing and communications.
He took to LinkedIn on Tuesday to share the news of his departure, calling his decision “a mix of emotions.”
“When I joined Ovolo, I was drawn to its bold, disruptive spirit, a challenger hotel brand that didn’t just follow trends but set them. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most creative and passionate colleagues in the industry, helping to shape Ovolo’s brand, launch groundbreaking campaigns, and steer the business through some of the toughest challenges, including a global pandemic.”
During his seven years with the group, he was part of launching new properties, entering the international market, and rebranding to “Wonder. Full”.
Howard on several industry boards and judging panels, and his past roles include national manager public relations for Hyundai Motor Company Australia and group PR director for Event Hospitality & Entertainment Limited.
In the post, he said: “Ovolo has never been just a workplace for me; it’s been a home for ideas, innovation, and incredible people,” he said.
Howard explained that his decision to leave was personal, “rooted in the need to focus on family, health, and the next chapter of my journey,” and that he leaves the company with “immense pride and gratitude for everything we’ve built together.”
He also thanked Ovolo Hotels founder and executive chairman Girish Jhunjhnuwala, the leadership team and colleagues.
“To my marketing and communications team, both past and present, you’ve all been incredible, and it’s been an honour to work by your side. Your creativity, support, and shared passion for delivering exceptional marketing communications strategies and initiatives, bound by the philosophies of our F.A.M.E. brand pillars, emotional connection, and effortless living, have made this journey one I will always cherish.
“This is not a farewell, but a ‘see you later. ‘ I’ll be cheering Ovolo on from the sidelines.”
Top image: Stephen Howard