Big name moves as Marriott expands

Marriott International has continued its global strategy to establish continental divisions in Asia Pacific and the Middle East and Africa, with two new leadership appointments.

Simon F. Cooper will fill the role of president and managing director, Asia Pacific, while Edwin D. Fuller will lead operations and growth in the MENA region in his continued role as president and managing director, Lodging International. He will also provide counsel on the company’s global growth strategy

Arne Sorenson, president and chief operating officer, Marriott International said: “Simon brings strong business savvy and deep knowledge of the emerging markets in Asia Pacific given the significant recent growth in the Asia portfolio for The Ritz-Carlton.”

“Under his leadership, we achieved a major expansion of The Ritz-Carlton brand around the world and most recently positioned it for future growth through the leverage of our company’s global support platform,” he added.

The company will also expand in the MENA region, with 42 additional hotels planned for the area over the next three years.