Nancy London named Westin’s New Vice President and Global Brand Leader

Sue Brush, long-time leader of Westin Hotels & Resorts and a 30-year veteran of Westin and its parent company Starwood Hotels & Resorts has confirmed that she will retire on 31 December 2009.

As Westin’s Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader, Brush has been responsible for the standards, marketing and strategic direction of the brand, while also helping to launch a number of “firsts”, including the launch of the now iconic Heavenly Bed and the brand’s retail program.

Brush was also instrumental in the launch of Breathe by Westin (the brand’s smoke-free program,) Heavenly Bath, WestinWORKOUT, SuperFoods breakfast menu, and Heavenly Spa by Westin; as well as a unique partnership with United Airlines to bring Westin’s Heavenly experience to the sky.

Brush, who during her career visited 300 hotels, 25 countries and 50 hotel openings, was also an active partner to developers and owners, and during her tenure, the Westin brand grew from just over 50 hotels to nearly 170 properties around the world.

“Sue is an icon in our industry, and deservedly so,” said Frits van Paasschen, President and Chief Executive Officer of Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “It is hard to imagine a more passionate or effective brand ambassador. Sue’s personal touch, open ear and commitment to ensuring, as she would say, ‘that guests leave Westin feeling better than when they arrived’ has helped distinguish Westin from its competitors and made it a top choice for developers, guests and the best and the brightest talent in the hotel industry.”

Brush has been recognized by the Advertising Women of New York with a “Changing the Game Award;” been listed among Travel Agent magazine’s “Most Powerful Women in Travel” several times; and named a leading innovator by Lodging Magazine.

“The acquisition of Westin by Starwood in 1995 was the real catalyst that ignited Westin to unprecedented growth and innovation. I was lucky enough to be able to help implement those great ideas,” said Brush. “The corporate and divisional teams inspire me every day and there’s nothing better than visiting our great hotels and watching our associates bring Westin to life for our guests. It’s been a great ride and I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Nancy London, currently Vice President of Marketing for the Westin Global Brand Team, has been named Westin’s new Vice President and Global Brand Leader.

London joined Starwood in 2001 and the Westin team in 2004. Under Brush’s leadership, London directed Westin’s innovative marketing programs and promotions, including the award-winning multi-media “This is How it Should Feel” advertising campaign. She was also instrumental in developing and implementing Westin’s partnerships with United Airlines and Nordstrom stores.

Prior to joining Starwood, London held various marketing management positions at International Masters Publishers, Time Inc. and Doubleday Direct.

See other recent news regarding: Travel News Asia, Starwood, Westin, Vice President