Starwood Hotels Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Starwood Hotels has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, organizational development, administrative operations, information technology, resort management, human resources, and corporate leadership.

Committed to delivering timeless elegance and modern convenience, Starwood Hotels prioritizes exceptional guest experiences through thoughtful amenities and prime locations. The company maintains a legacy of hospitality excellence across diverse markets.

Leadership Roles at Starwood Hotels

  • Chief Executive Officer - Ahmed Amen
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Kurt Durak
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Harborside Resort - Dale Curtin
  • President - Robert Cotter
  • Chief of Staff - Mary-Jo D'Alessandro
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer - Roger Berry
  • Chief People Officer - Clio Knowles
  • Ahmed Amen - Chief Executive Officer

    Ahmed Amen, the Chief Executive Officer at Starwood Hotels, directs the overarching strategic vision and long-term growth initiatives for the entire portfolio. Amen oversees the integration of modern design with colonial heritage across all properties, ensuring that every location maintains the high standards of the brand. By aligning operational goals with market demands, the Chief Executive Officer drives revenue expansion and enhances the guest experience through innovative service models. Ahmed Amen monitors performance metrics across all regions, facilitating collaboration between regional managers and corporate leadership to optimize asset value. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of the competitive landscape to ensure the company remains a premier choice for travelers. Through rigorous oversight of capital investments and brand positioning, the Chief Executive Officer secures the company's reputation for excellence in the hospitality sector while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational efficiency.

    Kurt Durak - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Kurt Durak, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Starwood Hotels, architects the foundational philosophy and core values that define the company's market presence. Durak focuses on the expansion of the brand footprint, identifying strategic opportunities for growth in key urban and academic hubs. As the Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Durak maintains a direct influence on the development of unique property identities, ensuring that each hotel reflects the specific cultural nuances of its location. This leadership role requires constant engagement with stakeholders and investors to sustain financial health and brand integrity. Kurt Durak drives the implementation of high-level service standards that distinguish the company from competitors. By championing innovation in guest amenities and facility design, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer ensures that the company remains at the forefront of the hospitality industry, consistently delivering legendary stays for every guest.

    Dale Curtin - Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Harborside Resort

    Dale Curtin, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Harborside Resort at Starwood Hotels, directs all operational activities and service delivery standards for the Harborside property. Curtin oversees the daily management of resort facilities, including guest services, housekeeping, and on-site dining operations. As the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Harborside Resort, Curtin drives the implementation of custom catering and event management services for corporate conferences and networking gatherings. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation to ensure that the resort maintains its reputation for excellence while maximizing profitability. Dale Curtin monitors guest feedback and operational performance to refine service protocols and enhance the overall visitor experience. By focusing on the specific needs of the Harborside market, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Harborside Resort ensures that the property remains a top-tier destination for both business and leisure travelers.

    Robert Cotter - President

    Robert Cotter, the President at Starwood Hotels, directs the day-to-day business operations and ensures the successful execution of the company's strategic plan. Cotter oversees the performance of all hotel properties, monitoring revenue growth, cost management, and service quality across the entire portfolio. As the President, Cotter drives the implementation of operational standards that maintain the company's competitive edge in the hospitality market. This leadership role involves working closely with the executive team to refine business processes and expand the company's reach into new markets. Robert Cotter manages the relationships with property owners and stakeholders, ensuring alignment with the company's long-term vision. By focusing on operational efficiency and consistent brand delivery, the President ensures that the company continues to provide exceptional value to guests while achieving sustainable financial results and maintaining its status as a leader in the lodging industry.

    Mary-Jo D'Alessandro - Chief of Staff

    Mary-Jo D'Alessandro, the Chief of Staff at Starwood Hotels, manages the internal communication flow and coordinates high-priority projects across the executive leadership team. D'Alessandro facilitates the execution of corporate initiatives by aligning departmental objectives with the broader mission of the company. As the Chief of Staff, D'Alessandro oversees the administrative infrastructure that supports daily operations, ensuring that executive decision-making processes remain efficient and transparent. This role involves managing complex schedules and cross-functional meetings to maintain organizational focus on key performance indicators. Mary-Jo D'Alessandro drives the implementation of internal policies that streamline workflows and enhance productivity across all corporate functions. By serving as a primary liaison between the leadership team and various business units, the Chief of Staff ensures that strategic goals are communicated effectively and achieved within established timelines, ultimately supporting the company's commitment to operational excellence and guest satisfaction.

    Roger Berry - Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer

    Roger Berry, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Starwood Hotels, architects the digital infrastructure and technological framework that powers the company's guest services. Berry oversees the deployment of high-speed connectivity, advanced reservation systems, and secure data management protocols across all properties. As the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Berry drives the integration of modern conveniences into the guest experience, ensuring that technology remains intuitive and reliable. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity initiatives and digital transformation projects that support the company's operational scale. Roger Berry collaborates with other executives to leverage data analytics for improved decision-making and personalized guest interactions. By maintaining robust IT systems, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer ensures that the company's digital presence matches the physical quality of its hotels, providing a seamless and efficient experience for every visitor.

    Clio Knowles - Chief People Officer

    Clio Knowles, the Chief People Officer at Starwood Hotels, architects the human capital strategy and organizational culture that drive the company's service excellence. Knowles oversees talent acquisition, professional development, and employee engagement programs across all regional operations. As the Chief People Officer, Knowles drives initiatives that foster a supportive and high-performing work environment, ensuring that staff members are equipped to deliver the legendary service expected by guests. This leadership role involves managing performance management systems and compensation structures that attract and retain top industry talent. Clio Knowles collaborates with department heads to align workforce capabilities with the company's growth objectives. By prioritizing employee well-being and career advancement, the Chief People Officer ensures that the company maintains a dedicated and skilled team capable of upholding the brand's commitment to quality and hospitality in every interaction.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Starwood Hotels Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Starwood Hotels?
    Starwood Hotels is led by Ahmed Amen (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Kurt Durak (Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and Dale Curtin (Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Harborside Resort).
    Who is part of Starwood Hotels’s executive team?
    The executive team of Starwood Hotels includes leaders such as Ahmed Amen (Chief Executive Officer), Kurt Durak (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Dale Curtin (Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Harborside Resort) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Starwood Hotels have?
    Starwood Hotels has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Starwood Hotels’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Starwood Hotels includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Harborside Resort, President, Chief of Staff.