Marriott International has announced the appointment of Jerome Briet as Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), a division that encompasses over 75 countries. Briet takes on the role from Carlton Ervin, who was recently named as Global Development Officer for the group’s global portfolio.

In his position, Briet will be responsible for driving Marriott’s growth trajectory and market position across EMEA, while supporting the company’s worldwide development vision. He will work to identify new opportunities for the business, owners and franchisees, and be in charge of shaping the leadership team.

“I am delighted that Jerome has stepped into the role to lead Marriott’s development strategy across EMEA,” comments Satya Anand, President, Europe, Middle East and Africa at Marriott International. “With his extensive knowledge of hotel development and acquisitions, and his remarkable track record of growth for Marriott International, I know Jerome will drive great success for the company in the region.”

Prior to this role, Briet was Chief Development Officer, Middle East and Africa. Since joining Marriott in 2012, he has overseen major growth across the region, including the opening of luxury properties in the UAE – notably Bulgari Resort & Residences Dubai and Marriott Hotel & Resort Palm Jumeirah – as well as Ritz-Carlton properties in Ras Al Khaimah, including Al Wadi Desert and Al Hamra Beach Resort.

Briet has more than 15 years of hospitality experience, starting as a night auditor for Marriott Vacation Club in 2003. He then left Marriott to work at commercial real estate company Jones Lang LaSalle. Following this, he took up a role with Millennium & Copthorne, where he oversaw development and acquisitions for the Middle East, Africa and India. He re-joined Marriott in 2012 as Senior Director of Development Middle East and Africa, working his way up through different leadership positions within the development team.