Arne M. Sorenson, president and CEO of Marriott International has been appointed to the board of the Corporation for Travel Promotion. 

Brand USA, which was established by the Travel Promotion Act to spearhead the nation’s first global marketing effort to promote the United States as a premier travel destination and communicate U.S. entry/exit policies and procedures, was signed into law by President Obama in March 2010.

“As president and CEO of Marriott International, Arne brings a wealth of experience and insights to the Brand USA board,” said Caroline Beteta, chair elect of the board and president and CEO of Visit California.

“Marriott is a leading global lodging company with more than 3,700 properties in 74 countries and territories, and Arne’s lodging company leadership and vast international experience will be especially valuable as Brand USA continues its work to market the United States as the world’s premier travel destination.”

In addition to Sorenson’s appointment, the reappointments of three other board members were also announced.  The newly appointed and reappointed members include: Caroline Beteta, President and CEO, Visit California (reappointment) George Fertitta, CEO, NYC & Company (reappointment) and Roy Yamaguchi, Owner and Chef, Roy’s Restaurants (reappointment).

The CTP Board of Directors represents various regions of the United States and each member has expertise and experience in specific sectors of the travel and tourism industry.

In making the announcement, Blank noted, “International visitors to the United States play a critical role in creating jobs here in the U.S., boosting both our regional and national economies.” 

“We are working to meet the President’s goal of doubling travel and tourism exports and achieving the goals developed for the National Travel & Tourism Strategy.  Having this diverse and talented group of industry leaders on the Board will help strengthen our ability to promote the U.S. has a top tourist destination,” Blank added in the announcement.