02/18/2021
It is with profound sadness that Marriott International announces that Arne M. Sorenson, President and CEO, unexpectedly passed away on February 15, 2021. In May 2019, the company announced that Mr. Sorenson had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. On February 2, 2021, Marriott shared the news that Mr. Sorenson would temporarily reduce his schedule to facilitate more demanding treatment for pancreatic cancer.
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. During his tenure as CEO, 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.
Barry Biggar, President & CEO, Visit Fairfax and President of SkĂĄl International Washington DC
“The passing of Arne Sorenson is a great loss to our Industry. Mr. Sorenson epitomized the true definitions of Hospitality and Leadership. To his family and his extended Marriott family, our most heartfelt and sincere condolences. Mr. Sorenson was a giant in and for our Industry, worldwide. His legacy will live on and his contributions will touch the lives of generations to come.”
Roger Dow President & CEO U.S. Travel Association
“It is difficult to find words that express the depth of our sadness at the passing of Arne Sorenson, our dear friend, business leader and travel advocate," said Roger Dow. "To me, Arne was more than a professional colleague with whom I shared a special Marriott bond, he was an ally, a trusted friend and a partner. I will miss him terribly.”
Elliott L. Ferguson, President & CEO, Destination DC
“The hospitality community mourns the loss of Arne Sorenson, CEO of Marriott International. He will be remembered for his trailblazing leadership and commitment to the hospitality industry and Marriott brand. On behalf of Destination DC, we extend our condolences and support to his family, friends, and Marriott colleagues.”
Chris Thompson, President & CEO, Brand USA
“The entire Brand USA family grieves the loss of Marriott CEO Arne Sorenson. Beyond being a giant of the hospitality sector and the larger business world, Arne was a crucial figure in Brand USA’s history. His leadership and guidance as our chair laid the foundation upon which we operate today. He was an industry titan, boss, and mentor and friend to me and so many others in our industry. Let us each take a moment to reflect on those we hold dear and live up to the values Arne exemplified and the humility with which he conducted himself until the very end of his life.”
Peter Pantuso- President & CEO at American Bus Association
“The motorcoach and group travel industry mourns the loss of Arne Sorenson, Marriott's CEO. Arne was a not only a leader in the hospitality community but he was a visionary, a supporter of and a friend to the entire industry. His personal brand, like that of Marriott, was one of inclusion, engagement and community involvement. On behalf of the American Bus Association and all of our members, we extend our condolences to his family and to his colleagues at Marriott.”
Nicole Quiroga, President & CEO Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
“Arne Sorenson, President and CEO of Marriott International, was a tremendous leader and visionary in the hospitality industry. He was tirelessly committed to diversity, inclusion and equity within the company and always looked for ways to provide opportunities to associates, small businesses and shareholders. On behalf of GWHCC, we extend heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. He will be sorely missed.”
Angela Franco, Interim President & CEO, DC Chamber of Commerce
“The hospitality industry lost a wonderful great leader in Arne Sorenson who was committed to and cared deeply for his employees and his community. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and all of his Marriott colleagues and associates.”
On behalf of SkĂĄl members around the world, we offer our sincere condolences to the Sorenson family and the Marriott International family.
