Sorenson To Be Marriott's President

Marriott International today announced a new president and chief operating officer along with the shuffling of some of its other top executive positions.

As of May 1, chief financial officer Arne Sorenson will step into the position of president and COO, as current president and COO William Shaw moves to the position of vice chairman. Both will report to CEO J.W. Marriott Jr.

Sorenson joined Marriott in 1996, led the acquisition of the Renaissance Hotels and Resorts brand in 1997 and assumed the CFO position in 1998. He also was Marriott's president of continental European lodging, and his new role will give him global scope in overseeing Marriott's performance and growth.

"Since joining Marriott 12 years ago, Arne has rapidly emerged as one of the most effective senior executives in our industry," Marriott said in a statement. "His success across a wide scope of disciplines uniquely positions him for this role in our company at a time when both the challenges and opportunities for growth are tremendous."

Shaw's new position gives him oversight of the company's global finance, owner and franchise services areas, architecture, construction and information resources. "Bill has managed through several recessions since he joined the company in 1974, and his wise financial judgment was, and continues to be, invaluable to the company," according to Marriott.

Carl Berquist, executive vice president of financial information and risk management, will succeed Sorenson as the company's CFO. He also will continue in his role as the company's principal accounting officer.