Marriott International has appointed Anthony Capuano as CEO following the death of Arne Sorenson.
Capuano was previously Group President, Global Development, Design and Operations Services for the hotel giant.
“This appointment is the honour of a lifetime, but it’s also an incredibly bittersweet moment for me,” he said.
“I have this new role because my friend and mentor lost his courageous battle with pancreatic cancer last week. I still find it hard to believe that he’s gone.”
Capuano joined Marriott in 1995 and, following various promotions, became Senior Vice President of Full-Service Development for North America 10 years later. He became Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer in 2009.
Marriott today also announced the appointment of Stephanie Linnartz as new President with immediate effect.
She was previously Group President, Consumer Operations, Technology and Emerging Businesses.
“The task before us is not insignificant,” added Capuano. “The Covid-19 pandemic is the most challenging crisis in the history of the travel industry. But I know with the Marriott team in place, we will continue the groundbreaking work of our first three CEOs to advance and grow the promise of Marriott International.
“I know I have big shoes to fill. But I’ve also been given some sound advice – don’t try to walk in Arne’s shoes – follow his path but find your own footing. With Stephanie, the leadership team, and Marriott’s global team of associates, I have no doubt I’ll be able to do just that.”
