Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq:MAR), today announced David Flueck has been appointed to the position of Senior Vice President, Loyalty. In addition to overseeing Marriott’s award winning loyalty programs, Marriott Rewards, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards, and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG®), Flueck will provide global leadership and strategic direction for the future combined loyalty program. Flueck joined Marriott with the company’s acquisition of Starwood Hotels and Resorts in September 2016 and served as Senior Vice President, Revenue Management and Starwood Preferred Guest. In his new role, Flueck will report to Marriott’s Global Marketing Officer, Karin Timpone.
“Marriott places a high priority on cultivating strong relationships with loyalty members across the best hotel portfolio in the industry,” said Karin Timpone, Global Marketing Officer, Marriott. “David’s vision, passion, business acumen and track record in loyalty will keep the focus on our guests while propelling our continued success.”
Flueck, who joined Starwood 13 years ago, will lead the teams that created two of the industry’s most awarded loyalty programs, including delivery of unprecedented member benefits on the first day of the acquisition. Members were immediately able to link their accounts to enjoy the benefits, recognition and experiences each program has to offer, including having their status matched.
“This is an incredible opportunity to build on the legacy of innovation of Marriott Rewards and SPG®,” said David Flueck, Senior Vice President, Loyalty, Marriott. “Marriott Rewards and SPG® will continue to drive deeper engagement and emotional connections with our members who share our passion for travel.”
Prior to leading SPG®, Flueck oversaw Starwood’s Global Revenue Management team where his team grew global market share through a proprietary revenue management system that leveraged machine learning and big data capabilities. Prior to joining Starwood, Flueck was a consultant for the Boston Consulting Group. Flueck has an MBA from the University of Chicago, and a degree in economics from the University of Colorado.
As part of the new leadership structure, Thom Kozik will continue in his role as Vice President of Loyalty, leading Marriott Rewards and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards, and reporting to Flueck. In addition, Kozik will take on added responsibilities for cutting-edge strategic initiatives.
Marriott Rewards – which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards – spans 18 unique and iconic global brands and over 4,500 distinctive properties. The Marriott Rewards Portfolio of brands includes The Ritz-Carlton, EDITION, JW Marriott, Autograph Collection Hotels, Renaissance Hotels, Marriott Hotels, Delta Hotels, Marriott Executive Apartments, Marriott Vacation Club, Gaylord Hotels, AC Hotels by Marriott, Courtyard, Residence Inn, SpringHill Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites, TownePlace Suites, Protea Hotels and Moxy.
Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG®) is an innovative, award-winning frequent traveler program that unites 11 distinctive hotel brands and includes more luxury hotels in more destinations around the world. SPG’s unique portfolio of brands is comprised of W Hotels, St. Regis® Hotels & Resorts, The Luxury Collection®, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Westin® Hotels & Resorts, Tribute Portfolio, Le Méridien, Four Points® by Sheraton, Aloft, Element Hotels and Design Hotels™.
