Susan Thronson -- Featured Panelist

Susan Thronson is Senior Vice President, Global Marketing for Marriott International, Inc. Since 2005, Thronson has lead all enterprise efforts related to worldwide integrated marketing strategy and execution for Marriott International and its 12 lodging brands. Her leadership efforts consist of brand-level advertising, social media and sales promotions, strategic alliances, customer relationship management, gift card and certificate products, and Marriott Rewards. In 2009, her responsibilities were extended to include The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. Prior assignments include Senior Vice President, International Marketing when she was responsible for developing emerging markets’ brand and marketing strategy. During her 15-year tenure in International Lodging, Marriott grew its annual revenue from $300M to over $5B in 64 countries outside of the U.S. and Canada. Thronson created a global field marketing organization and installed critical marketing infrastructure and talent to support the company’s global growth objectives. Earlier in her career, she served in account management roles at McCann-Erickson Worldwide. Thronson serves as the chair of the Board of Trustees for the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International Foundation. She received a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Nevada-Reno.