"Frits is an extremely talented and proven leader with demonstrated success in driving both top and bottom-line growth on a global scale across a variety of leading consumer lifestyle companies," said Duncan. Van Paasschen will look to extend his knowledge across Starwood's stable of nine brands. "This is an exciting period of transformation for Starwood," said van Paasschen, "as it establishes itself as a leading global hotel operator and lifestyle company with many outstanding brands." (DE)