CEO of Norwalk-Based Priceline Group Resigns After Relationship with Employee

NORWALK, CT - Darren Huston, CEO of Norwalk-based online travel company Priceline Group, abruptly resigned from his position following revelations that he had a personal relationship with an employee.

An independent investigation into the matter determined the relationship violated the company's code of conduct, reports Bloomberg.

Huston was also CEO of Priceline subsidiary Booking.com, and he relinquished that position, also. Both resignations are effective immediately.

CNBC writes that the employee in question was not under his direct supervision. Huston reportedly acknowledged his actions were inappropriate for an executive at the company, and he expressed his regret.

Jeffery Boyd, former Priceline CEO and Chairman, has been appointed to the CEO post on an interim basis, and Gillian Tans, Chief Operating Officer for Booking.com, has been appointed CEO of that division.

In a statement, James M. Guyette, Lead Independent Director, said, "I am satisfied with the Board's thorough review of this issue. The performance of the business under Darren has been strong, and the Company is very well-positioned to continue executing on its strategy for growth. Jeff is deeply familiar with the Company's strategy and leadership team, which consists of highly accomplished entrepreneurs and seasoned professional executives with long-tenure in the business. We are confident the Company is in strong hands while we conduct a search for a new CEO."

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