Marriott International boss Arne Sorenson is to step-back from his full-time responsibilities for “several months” in a battle against pancreatic cancer.
The 62-year-old president and chief executive of the US hotel group will be temporarily reducing his schedule to “facilitate more demanding treatment for pancreatic cancer,” the company announced.
An interim management structure has been put in place to oversee day-to-day operations.
Sorenson was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in May 2019 and started treatment.
He said: “While I have worked throughout my treatment to date and plan to remain as engaged in the business as my health allows, the right thing to do for me, my family and the company is to focus on my health.
“I, along with my family and my medical team, remain optimistic about my prognosis and I plan to return full-time after the conclusion of my treatments.”
Sorensen will remain as Marriott’s president and chief executive and has tapped two veteran Marriott executives to share the responsibility for overseeing the group’s business units and corporate functions, in addition to maintaining their current responsibilities.
Stephanie Linnartz, group president, consumer operations, technology and emerging businesses, will take responsibility of the company’s international division, as well as legal, human resources, communications and public affairs.
Tony Capuano, group president, global development, design and operations services, will oversee Marriott’s US and Canada division and finance.
They are long-time members of the Marriott leadership team, having joined the company in 1997 and 1995, respectively.
Executive chairman J W Marriott Jr said: “Arne has the full support of the board and the executive team as he takes this time to focus on his health, and our prayers are with him for a speedy recovery.
“Arne has built an excellent executive team. I have every confidence in Stephanie and Tony and the entire leadership team to continue to implement our strategy and to not miss a beat running day-to-day operations.”