BETHESDA, Md., Jan. 11, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) announced today that William J. Shaw, a 37-year veteran and vice chairman of the company since 2009, plans to retire effective March 31.
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Throughout his career, Mr. Shaw has distinguished himself as a highly respected leader, both at Marriott as well as in the broader hospitality industry. His hands-on management, particularly in the financial sphere, has been a distinct competitive advantage as the company transitioned and grew from involvement in multiple businesses to a global lodging leader with more than 3,500 hotels and timeshare resorts in 70 countries.
J.W. Marriott, Jr., the company's chairman and chief executive officer, said, "Since Bill Shaw joined us 37 years ago in 1974 he has been a tremendous influence in building our company to where we are today. I can't think of a better partner than Bill as we evolved from a conglomerate with at least 12 totally different businesses in 1974 to focus on hotels and timeshare resorts.
"Over the years, Bill has been a trusted, steadfast counselor and advisor to me as we've managed through both good times and bad and expanded our company into a global brand. I personally will miss his genuine passion for our business and his devotion to the success and well-being of Marriott's global team of associates. His contributions over nearly four decades have been invaluable."
Prior to being named vice chairman of the company, Mr. Shaw was president and chief operating officer. During his 12-year tenure in this role, he became a leading voice for diversity and inclusion, including successfully driving a significant increase in diversity among Marriott's suppliers and hotel owners. He also was instrumental in helping to foster leadership development for women. In 2003, Mr. Shaw was a founding member of the Committee for Excellence, a joint committee of senior management and the board of directors established to foster diversity at the company.
Mr. Shaw joined the original Marriott Corporation in 1974, was appointed corporate controller in 1979 and a vice president in 1982. He was elected senior vice president, finance and treasurer, in 1986, and was appointed chief financial officer and executive vice president of Marriott Corp. in 1988. He was named president of the Marriott Service Group, a division of Marriott Corp., in 1992, and became president and chief operating officer of the current Marriott International, Inc. in 1997.
Active in community affairs, Mr. Shaw has served on the board of trustees at the University of Notre Dame, his alma mater, and the Suburban Hospital Foundation, as well as the NCAA Leadership Advisory Board, and the Board of Directors of the United Negro College Fund.
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SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.
