Marriott International (MAR/NYSE) has named Kathryn Townshend vice president of SpringHill Suites, the company`s newest lodging product launched in November 1998. Townshend will be responsible for developing the growth and positioning strategies for the SpringHill Suites brand. She will oversee the operations for the brand, which over the next five years is projected to grow to 125 properties throughout the United States.

Townshend`s 18-year career with Marriott includes a diverse marketing and sales background across several Marriott lodging brands. Most recently, Townshend served as brand team vice president for Fairfield Inn by Marriott—Marriott`s award-winning economy lodging chain—where she was instrumental in re-branding Fairfield Suites to SpringHill Suites. She also has served as brand team vice president for Marriott Hotels, Resorts and Suites, Marriott International`s full-service lodging division.

Townshend`s tenure with Marriott also includes leadership positions in consumer marketing and revenue management. She began her career as a sales manager at the Key Bridge Marriott hotel in Arlington, Va., one of Marriott International`s first hotels. Townshend earned a communications degree from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville.

Solidly positioned in the upper moderate tier, each guest suite is 25 percent larger than a traditional hotel room and features separate working, sleeping and eating areas, including pantry area with personal size refrigerator and microwave. SpringHill Suites also offers complimentary continental breakfast, fax and copy services, same-day dry cleaning, indoor swimming pool, whirlpool spa and exercise room.

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