Newsmaker: Choice Taps Marriott Exec

Michael Murphy, a former Marriott International executive, this month began work heading global sales and intermediary marketing efforts at Choice Hotels International.

Choice—which franchises more than 5,800 hotels under brands including Comfort Inn and Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites and Suburban Extended Stay—appointed Murphy, a 25-year veteran of the hospitality industry, as its vice president of global sales. Murphy most recently served as senior vice president of sales for Marriott and also has worked in senior sales and marketing roles at Renaissance and Stouffer Hotels.

"Michael will play a leading role in elevating Choice's global sales efforts as we continue to focus on delivering more business directly to Choice-branded hotels," Choice chief marketing officer Chris Malone said in a statement. "Michael and his organization will also concentrate on helping our owners and operators take advantage of the many resources available to maximize property-level sales."

In a statement provided to BTN, Murphy said one of his top goals would be to further leverage the global distribution of Choice's brand portfolio, matching customers with the most appropriate lodging products. He also wants to drive innovations through the Choice Privileges rewards program and the better use of technology, and "implement a strategic account management structure within the global sales team which recognizes and rewards our best customers."

Murphy also will serve as Choice's primary liaison with travel industry associations and conferences, the chain said.

Additionally this month, Choice hired Cindy Murphy—no relation to Michael—as the director of hotel performance support for its Cambria Suites brand. Cindy Murphy, who most recently worked for InterContinental Hotels Group in leadership positions for its Hotel Indigo and Holiday Inn brands, will work with hotel owners and management to enhance local sales, revenue management, service and operations.