Physically transforming Starwood into a global company, Development and Real
Estate is the link between Starwood’s vision and its realization of these
goals. Responsible for site selection and analysis, deal structure management,
and the architecture and design of Starwood’s properties, Development and Real
Estate is a highly visible and crucial function within the company.
The ideal Development and Real Estate candidate is a strategic thinker,
skilled negotiator and leader who is passionate about helping our organization
continue to grow. The ideal Development and Real Estate candidate generally
possesses an undergraduate degree in Real Estate, Business Administration or
Construction, at minimum.
An opportunity to experience Starwood in full, a position within Development
and Real Estate can open doors throughout Starwood on both a national and
global level. Many Development and Real Estate associates begin as Project
Coordinators, working side-by side with Directors and Senior Management
designing and developing projects. Many then move into Project Management
roles, taking on responsibilities for large-scale construction
projects.
My job as Director of Development, West is extremely satisfying. I work with
hotel owners, developers and management companies to build or convert to our
Westin, Sheraton, Le Méridien or Luxury Collection brands. Seeing a new hotel
rise up where there was once just dirt is such a rewarding experience. And to
know that I played an important role in the approval, gestation and creation of
a property is an indescribable and very proud feeling. I liken it to having
children, although most times it is much longer than nine months and, speaking
from experience, the process can often be more challenging than childbirth!
This job is so varied and dynamic that I don’t really have a “typical”
workday. My days are spent doing everything from hopping on a flight to check
out a hotel site to negotiating with lawyers on contract terms to pitching
deals with developers to entertaining clients. The variety that my job offers
is incredible. That excitement, coupled with the innovative spirit and quality
of brands Starwood possesses, truly makes me feel that there is nowhere else I
would rather be.
