Arne Sorenson, the president and CEO of Marriott International, has died after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2019, the company announced Tuesday. He was 62.
Mr. Sorenson became the third CEO in Marriott’s history in 2012, and the first without the Marriott surname. A visionary leader, Mr. Sorenson put the company on a strong growth trajectory that included the $13-billion acquisition of Starwood Hotels & Resorts.
Mr. Sorenson was tireless in driving the company’s progress, creating opportunities for associates, growth for owners and franchisees and results for the company’s shareholders.
Known for his leadership on difficult national and global issues, Mr. Sorenson steered Marriott to make significant progress on diversity, equity and inclusion, environmental sustainability and human trafficking awareness.
He had earlier this month stepped back from full-time role for several months to treat the cancer that was diagnosed in 2019.
Marriott said it will appoint a new CEO in the next two weeks.