Marriott International Hosts Revolutionary 'Lifestyle University' Program in Bangkok

HONG KONG, China, Nov. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- In an effort to keep pace with the company's continued growth in Asia, Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) recently hosted the first ever Lifestyle University educational program to help identify future leaders for Renaissance Hotels and Autograph Collection, two of the company's lifestyle brands.

Sixteen participants representing eight countries and four Marriott International brands including JW Marriott Hotels, Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Renaissance Hotels, and Courtyard by Marriott gathered for an exclusive program at the Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong in Thailand to learn what it takes to be a lifestyle leader in the hospitality space. Employees in the class took part in a rigorous application process. Nominated by their managers, the participating students were hand selected by senior leadership in the region based on their career aspirations and unique talent.

The two-day curriculum, inspired by the Renaissance Hotels brand and the Autograph Collection, focused on various aspects of the lifestyle hospitality category including culture, operations, design, marketing, and public relations. The course also included hands-on off-site learning and team-based exercises.

"As record growth continues in Asia, we understand that our people are our most valuable asset," said Craig S. Smith, chief operations officer, Asia Pacific for Marriott International. "It is critical to craft an environment that supports their personal growth and provides them with the right tools to build a successful career. Lifestyle University is a significant example of the innovative techniques that Marriott is using to develop the right talent for the future."

With the Bangkok workshop serving as the official pilot, Lifestyle University represents a first of its kind for Marriott International, with plans to expand the program globally over the next year.

"Globalization and the digital age have redefined the expectations of today's traveler," said Tina Edmundson, senior vice president of lifestyle brands for Marriott International. "Today's consumers are more sophisticated than ever before. We know they view travel as an opportunity for enrichment and discovery. Our goal was to create a fun, exciting, and hands-on training program that helps prepare our talent to better serve guests by further developing their understanding of how to create a true lifestyle hospitality experience."

Marriott International, Inc. is widely recognized for its extensive talent and training programs. The company has received numerous accolades in Asia Pacific including recognition from AON Hewitt as a "Best Employer" in Asia Pacific. Additional awards include the 2012 Great Places to Work Award for Marriott Hotels of India and the 2012 Top Employers Award for Marriott Hotels in China. This past January, FORTUNE magazine recognized Marriott International as one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" for the 15th consecutive year.

AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION is an evolving ensemble of strikingly independent hotels. Each destination has been selected for its bold originality, rich character and uncommon details. From near to far, iconic to historic, the result is an array of properties that is nothing less than unique, nothing short of collectively exceptional. For more information please visit www.autographhotels.com

RENAISSANCE HOTELS represents a diverse collection of more than 150 hotels in 35 countries worldwide. Each property is unique, offering passionate travelers a one-of-kind experience and memories they will be sure to take with them long after they depart. Within every hotel, guests are greeted by an exceptional array of amenities and an inspiring world of local discoveries. For travelers looking to experience something new, innovative and locally driven programs including the industry leading entertainment platform RLife LIVE as well R Navigator, ensure that every trip is transformed into an eye-opening, unforgettable journey. To discover more visit www.renhotels.com.  Friend us on Facebook www.facebook.com/RenHotels. Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/RenHotels

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.