"Steve Porter served as a director of IHG with greatdistinction. He was an outstanding executive and a passionatesupporter of the company," says David Webster, the hotel company'schairman in a statement. "Steve commanded the fullest respect andaffection of everyone in our industry. We are deeply saddened byhis death and our sympathies are with his family."

Last month, the company announced that Porter had relinquishedhis responsibilities due to medical reasons. At that time, RichardSolomons, IHG finance director, took over Porter's duties on aninterim basis. In a conference call held today, a companyspokesperson said that IHG would look both inside and outside thecompany for a replacement. In compliance with the family's wishes,details about Porter's illness were not released. The spokespersonfurther stated that the company intends to proceed with itsAmericas Investors & Leadership Conference scheduled for Sept.23 through Sept. 26 in Los Angeles.

A 32-year veteran of the hospitality industry, Porter joined IHGin 2001 as COO for the Americas. A year later, he assumed the roleof president. During his tenure, the company acquired its sixthbrand, Candlewood Suites, and launched a seventh, Hotel Indigo, aboutique chain.