Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) have announced two new appointments across key leadership positions within the Australia, New Zealand and Pacific (ANZP) region. Both positions have been appointed to long-time Marriott associates - Kelly Russell has been appointed in a strategic sales leader role as Area Director, Sales & Distribution, and Carsten Siebert has been named Senior Area Director of Operations.

Kelly moves into the role with 10 years of experience in sales and leadership positions within the company, having previously held the role of Market Director – Sales & Distribution Victoria in which she was responsible for Marriott’s portfolio of 11 Melbourne hotels.

With a proven track record of driving revenue growth, Kelly brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. As Area Director, Sales & Distribution, Kelly will spearhead sales strategies, cultivating key relationships with partners to maximize revenue opportunities. With a keen understanding of market trends and customer needs, she will lead Marriott International’s cluster and hotel sales teams in delivering exceptional service and tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of guests.

Carsten Siebert has been a valued member of the Marriott team for over 25 years, having held numerous Operations and General Manager positions, including numerous Area Director of Operations roles across South East Asia including Australia.

Most recently Carsten was the Senior Director for Conversions in Asia Pacific excluding China - a key strategic role which will support the ANZP region’s strong pipeline of developments in future growth. As Senior Area Director of Operations, Carsten will support the company’s 47 hotels and resorts in ANZP to deliver operational excellence.

Sean Hunt, Area Vice President Marriott International - ANZP said,“ At the end of 2023 Marriott International achieved a milestone in the Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC) region, adding over 60 properties and securing more than 80 deals. This marked a record in signings and contributed approximately 18,000 rooms to our development pipeline. Here in ANZP the pipeline is strong with 20 properties in stages of development, and three imminent new openings in 2024.  With Kelly and Carsten heading our strategic leadership in their respective fields of expertise, I am confident in the performance of our team, and am optimistic that the year ahead will further solidify our region’s performance as a leading travel destination.”

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Carsten Siebert has been named Senior Area Director of Operations.