Airbnb boss quits after violating firm's relationship code

An Airbnb boss has stepped down after allegations of a romantic relationship between the executive and a female staff member were discovered.

The former China Head of Airbnb, Hong Ge, violated the home-rental company’s code of conduct by dating a female employee, according to two people familiar with the matter – Bloomberg reports. Those who spoke to the publication, and asked not to be identified, said the relationship created a distraction in the Beijing office.

Ge, who told colleagues he was leaving for another job – did not respond to requests for comment. Nick Papas, a spokesman for Airbnb, confirmed Ge’s departure but declined to comment further.

“It’s a very tough decision for me to leave behind all of what we have built together. But hey, it’s a small world. I will still be in the internet industry,” Ge wrote to staff. “I’m sure our paths will cross again in the future.”