In May 2008, Jeff M. Cava was named EVP Chief Human Resources Officer of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 960 properties in more than 97 countries and 160,000 employees.

Mr. Cava brings to Starwood more than 30 years of experience nearly half with major hospitality companies and consumer-focused, global lifestyle brands.  At Starwood, he will oversee global human resources and internal communications across all brands including St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, W Hotels, Westin, Sheraton, Four Points by Sheraton, Le Méridien, aloft and Element, as well as Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc. 

Prior to joining Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Jeff held executive human resource positions with several major corporations.  He was EVP and CHRO for Wendy’s Intl Inc., where he successfully implemented the industry’s first consumer driven health strategy.  

Prior to joining Wendy’s in 2003 Mr. Cava was Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer for Nike Inc.; Vice President Human Resources, The Walt Disney Company, Consumer Products Group; and, Vice President of Global Staffing, Training and Development for ITT Sheraton Corporation.

Jeff received both his Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Masters of Science degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from San Diego State University.