Hyatt Hotels brings in new chief marketing officer

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has appointed experienced executive Maryam Banikram as its global chief marketing offer.

In her new role, which she will take up on January 26, she will responsible for driving the company's individual brands online and offline, working across the business to facilitate innovation around the guest experience.

New to the hotel industry, she will report to president and CEO Mark Hoplamazian and replaces John Wallis who, according to Ad Age, will remain with the company to oversee strategic initiatives.

"Maryam is an exceptional leader,” said Hoplamazian. “She brings to Hyatt a wealth of experience working with brands that are experiential, emotional and brought to life in many ways, including through storytelling, all things we believe are essential to our brands and will help us achieve our goal of becoming the most preferred hotel company.

“Her energy, creativity and focus on people, along with her passion for innovation and proven track record of results, make Maryam a perfect fit."

In her 20-year career in marketing, Banikarim has been senior vice president at NBC Universal and chief marketing officer for Univision Communications, and previously consulted for companies such as Deutsche Bank, Bacardi and Time-Warner through a strategy firm she founded.

Most recently, she was the first-ever chief marketing officer at the Gannett Company, responsible for national sales, company-wide marketing, communications and research.

She holds a BA in political science from Barnard College, an MBA and Masters in International Affairs from Columbia University and serves on the boards of Reporters without Borders, Columbia University’s Alumni Association, the Ad Council, Advertising Week and the Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center.

"Hyatt has incredibly powerful global brands,” said Banikarim. “Its passion and commitment to providing authentic, caring experiences for its guests and colleagues, alike, is inspiring.

"I am excited to lead the marketing team at such a transformative time in the hospitality business and thrilled to be part of the Hyatt family."