Marriott International CEO Arne Sorenson temporarily will reduce his schedule as he undergoes "more demanding" treatment for pancreatic cancer, the company announced Tuesday morning. Marriott first revealed that he had been diagnosed with the disease in May 2019.
Sorenson, 62, will remain president and CEO, but is expected to step back from full-time oversight of the company for several months, according to the company. During this time, two executives will share his responsibilities. Marriott's group president of consumer operations, technology and emerging businesses Stephanie Linnartz will oversee the company's international lodging division as well as legal, human resources and communications and public affairs. Group president of global development, design and operations services Tony Capuano will oversee the company's U.S. and Canada lodging division and finance. Sorenson joined Marriott in 1996 and became CEO in 2012. Linnartz joined Marriott in 1997, Capuano in 1995.
"Since my diagnosis, I've been working with a great medical team at Johns Hopkins to treat this cancer," Sorenson said in a statement. "While I have worked throughout my treatment to date and plan to remain as engaged in the business as my health allows, the right thing to do for me, my family and the company is to focus on my health. I know Stephanie and Tony will work with Marriott's strong executive team to continue to move the company forward. I, along with my family and my medical team, remain optimistic about my prognosis and I plan to return full-time after the conclusion of my treatments."
Marriott will announce its fourth quarter and full-year 2020 results Feb. 18.