Starwood Names Hankin Chief Marketing Officer, Ballotti To Be President/North America

WHITE PLAINS, NY— Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. unveiled the promotions of Steve Hankin and Geoff Ballotti. Hankin, currently president STARS (Starwood Technology and Revenue Systems), has been named chief marketing officer as well. Meanwhile, Geoff Ballotti, currently executive vp/North America Hotel Operations, has been named President, North America. Both Hankin and Ballotti will report directly to Starwood COO Robert F. Cotter. “The lines between technological advances, traditional marketing initiatives and distribution strategies continue to cross,” said Cotter, in a prepared statement. “The need for quick field response to new initiatives has never been more apparent. To further enhance our speed to market capability and operational effectiveness, this new realignment utilizes the proven talents and accomplishments of Steve and Geoff at the highest level.”