Marriott International has announced that president and CEO Arne Sorenson is temporarily reducing his schedule in order to undergo a more demanding treatment for pancreatic cancer. Sorenson, who will retain his titles, is stepping back from full-time oversight of the hotel giant for the next several months.
Sorenson first disclosed his cancer diagnosis in May 2019. “Since my diagnosis, I’ve been working with a great medical team at Johns Hopkins to treat this cancer,” he says. “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.”
Two Marriott executives have been tapped by Sorenson to share responsibility for day-to-day operations. Stephanie Linnartz—who serves as group president of consumer operations, technology, and emerging businesses—will oversee Marriott’s international lodging division in addition to legal, human resources, communications, and public affairs. Tony Capuano—group president of global development, design, and operations services—will oversee finance, as well as the company’s U.S. and Canadian lodging division. “I know Stephanie and Tony will work with Marriott’s strong executive team to continue to move the company forward,” says Sorenson. “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.”
Executive chairman and chairman of the board J.W. Marriott, Jr. adds: “Arne has the full support of the board and the executive team as he takes this time to focus on his health, and our prayers are with him for a speedy recovery.”
