BETHESDA, MARYLAND William J. Shaw, a 37-year veteran of Marriott International Inc. and vice chairman of the company since 2009, plans to retire March 31.
Shaw’s hands-on management, particularly in the financial sphere, has been “a distinct competitive advantage” for Marriott as the company grew from involvement in multiple businesses to a global lodging leader, the company says in a statement.
“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,” Chairman and CEO Bill Marriott says. “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,” Marriott says. “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, 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 was instrumental in helping foster leadership development for women. In 2003, 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.
Shaw joined Marriott Corp. 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 in 1988. He was named president of Marriott Service Group in 1992, and became president and chief operating officer of the current Marriott International Inc. in 1997.
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.