Marriott's Dynamic Leader Passes
This week Marriott's CEO Arne Sorenson died from pancreatic cancer at the age of 62. I'm sure many road warriors will join me in heartfelt sadness at his passing.
If you google® the statement "everything good about American corporate leadership" Mr. Sorenson's name should come up first. He led with compassion, clarity and seemingly endless enthusiasm.
For those of us that made Marriott properties our "home away from home" for decades, we know the solid team leadership he created delivers nearly flawless consistent quality systemwide.
Whether I check into a flagship Marriott property or a thrifty airport Fairfield Inn, I arrive expectating a warm welcome, an immaculate room and WiFi that works.
Many of my fondest family memories include stays at Marriott properties worldwide.
Unlike other hotels chains, where expressions of appreciation for brand loyalty ring hollow, under his leadership I knew my brand loyalty was truly appreciated.
Perhaps most importantly, unlike hotel magnates that rely on false bravado and empty swagger, his leadership cut through political BS and was accompanied by empathy and a focus stressing tolerance and diversity.
If corporate executives in similar positions of leadership were to take a page from his playbook, the world, and American industry, would be better for it.
RIP Arne
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