8-KLeadership ChangesExhibits & Filings

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL INC /MD/ 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Jan 9, 2009)

Filed January 9, 2009For Securities:MAR

Summary

Marriott International, Inc. (MAR) filed an 8-K report on January 9, 2009, announcing a significant change in its Board of Directors. Effective January 7, 2009, the size of the Board was increased to eleven members with the appointment of W. Mitt Romney. This appointment comes at a time when Mr. Romney was a prominent public figure, having recently concluded a presidential campaign. Furthermore, Marriott established a new Finance Committee of the Board, with Mr. Romney appointed as its Chairman. This move suggests a potential focus on financial strategy and oversight. The filing confirms no undisclosed arrangements or material financial interests between Mr. Romney and the company, and his compensation will align with standard non-employee director practices.

Key Highlights

  • 1W. Mitt Romney appointed to Marriott's Board of Directors, increasing its size to eleven members.
  • 2The Board of Directors established a new Finance Committee.
  • 3W. Mitt Romney appointed as Chairman of the new Finance Committee.
  • 4Mr. Romney's appointment was based on the recommendation of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.
  • 5There are no disclosed arrangements or understandings between Mr. Romney and other persons regarding his selection as a director.
  • 6No material transactions or proposed transactions between Mr. Romney and Marriott requiring disclosure under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K.
  • 7Mr. Romney's compensation as a director will follow the company's established practices for non-employee directors.

Frequently Asked Questions

The filing states that W. Mitt Romney was appointed to the Board upon the recommendation of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. While the specific rationale beyond this is not detailed in the 8-K, his appointment may have been sought for his experience and insights.

The establishment of a new Finance Committee and the appointment of W. Mitt Romney as its Chairman suggests an increased emphasis on financial strategy, oversight, and potentially risk management by the Board. This committee will likely play a key role in guiding the company's financial decisions.

No, according to the filing, Mr. Romney will receive compensation as a non-employee director in accordance with Marriott's standard director compensation practices, as outlined in its most recent Proxy Statement. There are no disclosed special arrangements or material interests.

The filing does not indicate that this appointment is directly tied to specific ongoing financial transactions or issues. It states there are no current or proposed transactions in which Mr. Romney has a material direct or indirect interest. The creation of the Finance Committee suggests a proactive approach to financial governance.