Long-time Marriott International executive Sean Hunt has retired from his position as Area Vice President for Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific (ANZP), effective Monday July 1.
A spokesperson for Marriott confirmed Hunt’s retirement following a 37-year stint with the company announcing an interim leader while a replacement is sought.
“Marriott International announced Sean Hunt’s’ retirement as Area Vice President for Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific (ANZP), effective July 1,” the spokesperson told HM.
“We thank him for his contributions to Marriott and the industry, across his 37-year tenure.
“During this transition period, Neeraj Govil, Chief Operating Officer, Asia Pacific excluding China, will serve as the interim leader.”
Hunt, who commenced the position of ANZP Area Vice President in 2017, spent many years with Starwood Hotels and Resorts prior to Marriott’s acquisition of the company, which was completed in 2016.
Throughout his extensive hospitality career, he held several general manager and leadership roles throughout Asia Pacific, including as Regional Vice President, Pacific Region and Managing Director, Sheraton on the Park, and as the opening General Manager of the first Starwood Hotel in Vietnam, the Sheraton Saigon Hotel and Towers.
Since 2016, Marriott International has increased its hotel count in the Australia, New Zealand and Pacific market from seven hotels in 2016 to 47 in 2023, with the addition of a number of new brands, such as Moxy, and the opening of the world’s largest W Hotel in Sydney last October.
Hunt also vacates his position as Deputy Chair of Accommodation Australia, which he commenced following the amalgamation of the Accommodation Association and Tourism Accommodation Australia in July 2023.
He previously served on the National Board of Tourism Accommodation Australia for several years.