Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR) announced today that Joseph Lavin has been named executive vice president and general manager of ExecuStay by Marriott—the company’s corporate housing division. Lavin will report to Bob McCarthy, executive vice president, Marriott Lodging Operations and Support.

In his new role, Lavin will oversee the operation of more than 6,500 corporate apartments and 600 employees in approximately 200 cities worldwide. He will lead ExecuStay by Marriott, a recognized brand that provides corporate housing to executives and business travelers who need accommodations for a month or longer. The corporate housing is a $2.2 billion industry in the United States and has substantial domestic and international growth potential.

Lavin replaces former ExecuStay President Gary Abrahams, who co-founded the business in 1986. Abrahams, who plans to pursue personal interests, joined Marriott with the acquisition of ExecuStay in 1999 and was responsible for establishing Marriott as a leader in the corporate apartment market.

Prior to his appointment, Lavin served as senior vice president of franchising for Marriott’s five limited-service brands. Under his leadership, Marriott’s franchising business has achieved substantial growth and currently comprises 68 percent of Marriott’s limited-service portfolio. In addition, Lavin spearheaded the creation of the company’s newest lodging brand, SpringHill Suites by Marriott, which has grown to nearly 100 hotels in only three years.

Lavin holds a bachelor’s degree from the Cornell School of Hotel Administration. He currently serves on the Marriott Hospitality High School Advisory Board and was also recently elected president of the Cornell Hotel Society. Lavin resides with his wife, Jill, and their two children in Potomac, Maryland.

——-