WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., Sep 3, 2002 (BUSINESS WIRE)—Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) named Bill Linehan, a 17-year hotel and marketing veteran, as vice president, product development.

In this newly created position, Linehan is responsible for distribution growth for Starwood`s new-build prototype development, which includes alignment of design and development, marketing, operations, technology and training to support Starwood prototype hotels. Linehan will report in to the real estate and development division headed by Ted Darnall, president, Starwood Real Estate Group.

“Starwood continues to develop industry-firsts that establish us as the market leaders for guest comfort and design. As the world`s largest hotel owner/operator, we`ve been able to identify and implement key practices from all aspects of hotel operations from our vast portfolio of the world`s most dynamic brands in developing innovative, full-service, cost-effective prototypes,” said Ted Darnall. “Bill`s extensive background gives him insight into operations marketing and branding which make him well-suited to take on this very important role within Starwood.”

Prior to joining Starwood, Linehan was instrumental in the recent acquisition by Suburban Franchise System, Inc., which acquired the Suburban Lodge brand where he developed growth strategies that included a new identity and positioning for Suburban Extended Stay Hotels. Previously, Linehan provided strategic planning and business development within the hospitality industry for Radiant Systems, a software solutions company. Linehan`s tenure in the hotel industry includes launching Staybridge Suites by Holiday Inn for Six Continents Hotels where he created and managed the image, brand and market position of the brand. He also served in other sales and marketing roles with Hyatt, Hilton International and ITT Sheraton.

Linehan received his Bachelor of Science degree from Johnson & Wales University and earned his International Executive Masters of Business Administration from Lancaster University in England. He is the recipient of six Adrian Marketing awards and one Golden Bell Public Relations award from the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International. Linehan is married with three children and is based in Starwood`s White Plains, NY corporate headquarters.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 740 properties in more than 80 countries and 110,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. With internationally renowned brands, Starwood is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels and resorts including: St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, Sheraton, Westin, Four Points by Sheraton, W brands, as well as Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwood.com

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