[![](http://hotelintel.co/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/arnebusinessaward-300x150.png)](http://hotelintel.co/arne-sorenson-named-2016-washington-business-journal-ceo-year/arnebusinessaward/)
Arne Sorenson (seated center), and his wife Ruth Sorenson (seated left)
Arne Sorenson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Marriott International (NASDAQ: MAR), has been named 2016 [Washington Business Journal CEO of the Year](http://www.bizjournals.com/washington/news/2016/12/08/marriott-ceo-arne-sorenson-calm-cool-and-in.html). According to the Washington Business Journal, this award recognizes high performing CEOs who have demonstrated vital leadership and business savvy to guide their organizations to success. The news organization noted that Mr. Sorenson was selected for his strong record of innovation at Marriott, commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and contributions to the Greater Washington, D.C., community.
“I am humbled by this honor and grateful for the encouragement to keep creating incredible experiences for our guests,” said Mr. Sorenson. “My inspiration comes from my mentor, Bill Marriott, and the tremendous work that our 650,000 associates around the world do every day. This recognition is a reflection of their loyalty and dedication to serving our customers every day.”

Mr. Sorenson joined Marriott in 1996. He became the third CEO in the company’s history in 2012 – and the first without the Marriott surname. Prior to that, he served as Marriott’s President and Chief Operating Officer. He has held a number of positions, including Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and President of Continental European Lodging. He was elected to Marriott’s Board of Directors in 2011.

The Washington Business Journal focuses on breaking business news and updates throughout the Washington D.C. metro area. In the past, the news outlet has recognized leaders, including Reggie Aggarwal of Cvent and Knox Singleton of Inova Health Systems for its CEO of the Year honor.

Mr. Sorenson receives this recognition just a few months after Marriott completed its acquisition of Starwood Hotels and Resorts. Marriott now operates or franchises more than 6,000 properties in over 120 countries and territories.