MINNEAPOLIS— Carlson Hotels Worldwide has promoted Bjorn Gullaksen from regional vp/operations to evp and brand leader. Jay Witzel, president of Carlson Hotels Worldwide, said that in his new role, Gullaksen will be the top leader of the Radisson Hotels & Resorts brand, responsible for such areas as the brand culture; serving as the key contact for franchisee and partner relationships; leading orientation, training and field service; and developing brand systems, processes and standards. Gullaksen will report directly to Witzel. Radisson, which is Carlsons largest hotel brand, currently includes more than 430 hotels representing nearly 102,000 guest rooms in 59 countries. “As a key executive leader with the Radisson brand for more than five years and previous experience with our development partner Radisson SAS Hotels & Resorts in Europe, Bjorn has been a major contributor in helping to define, cultivate and incorporate the brands distinctive Genuine Hospitality service culture around the world,” said Witzel. Gullaksen most recently served as regional vp/operations for Radisson.