Arne Sorenson was the President and CEO of Marriott International, serving from 2012 until his passing in 2021. He is recognized for his leadership during significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, where he emphasized recovery marketing strategies to revive the hospitality industry and adapt to new market conditions.
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Arne Sorenson was the first CEO of Marriott International who was not a member of the Marriott family, marking a significant shift in the company's leadership culture.
Under Sorenson's guidance, Marriott expanded its global footprint, acquiring Starwood Hotels & Resorts in one of the largest deals in the hospitality industry.
Sorenson was a vocal advocate for corporate responsibility, emphasizing sustainability initiatives and diversity within the company.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sorenson took proactive steps to ensure Marriott's survival, including job cuts and cost-saving measures while promoting a strategy focused on recovery marketing.
His leadership style was characterized by transparency and empathy, gaining respect within the industry and among employees during challenging times.
Review Questions
How did Arne Sorenson's leadership during crises impact Marriott International's recovery strategies?
Arne Sorenson's leadership was pivotal during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic as he implemented recovery marketing strategies aimed at rebuilding trust and customer engagement. His approach involved transparent communication with stakeholders and innovative solutions to address changing customer needs. This not only helped Marriott navigate immediate challenges but also set a foundation for long-term resilience in the hospitality sector.
Evaluate Arne Sorenson's contributions to corporate responsibility during his tenure at Marriott International.
Arne Sorenson made significant contributions to corporate responsibility by prioritizing sustainability and diversity initiatives at Marriott International. He understood that consumers increasingly value companies that take ethical stands and act responsibly. By embedding these principles into Marriott’s operational strategy, he enhanced brand reputation and loyalty, demonstrating that corporate success is closely linked to social accountability.
Critically assess how Arne Sorenson's leadership style influenced Marriott's response to the challenges faced in the hospitality industry.
Arne Sorenson's leadership style, marked by transparency and empathy, greatly influenced Marriott's response to industry challenges. His ability to communicate openly with employees and stakeholders fostered trust during tumultuous periods, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. By prioritizing employee well-being while navigating financial difficulties, he not only preserved company morale but also positioned Marriott to adapt quickly to market changes, reflecting a strategic foresight that resonated across the hospitality sector.
Related terms
Marriott International: A global hospitality company that operates a broad portfolio of hotels and related lodging facilities, known for its focus on customer service and innovation in the travel industry.
The process by which an organization deals with a disruptive and unexpected event that threatens to harm the organization or its stakeholders.
Recovery Marketing: Strategies employed by businesses to rebuild their brand and customer loyalty following a crisis or downturn, focusing on re-engaging customers and driving business growth.