Starwood CEO Hires Former Colleague To Run Marketing

Proving once again that maintaining business relationships are a key to success (for everyone involved), Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide CEO Frits van Paasschen has hired a former colleague--Phil McAveety, from his days at Nike, to be chief brand officer of the hotel chain.

For van Paasschen it is an opportunity to hire a tested resource who he's seen perform on a first-hand basis. For McAveety it is an opportunity to jump into a position with a level of trust he might not otherwise receive if he was an un-known quantity.

McAveety reportedly will be responsible for all aspects of marketing and brand performance for the company's portfolio, which includes Le Meridien, Westin, Sheraton, W, St. Regis, the Luxury Collection, Four Points by Sheraton, aloft and Element. Additionally, he will oversee the Starwood Preferred Guest loyalty program, pr, market research, creative research, interactive marketing and partnership marketing.

From Brandweek:

"I've had the great pleasure to work with Phil in the past and I believe his brand expertise and broad international experience will be invaluable to Starwood as we continue to distinguish ourselves as a leading, global hospitality company with distinctive and compelling brands," van Paasschen said in a written statement.