Al Petrone

Al Petrone has over 20 years of senior leadership experience with some of the world’s most recognized and respected companies, including General Electric, Pepsi-Cola and Starwood Hotels & Resorts. As Director of Operations for W Hotels, Al was one of the key players in the launch and operation of one of the most exciting and successful brands in the hospitality industry. In more recent assignments, Al served as Vice President – Operations for Ian Schrager Hotels, Chief Marketing Officer for a boutique hotel chain, and as Chief Marketing Officer of an adventure cruise company.

Born in Puerto Rico to an American father and Nicaraguan mother, Al has lived, worked and traveled to over 100 countries including: Germany, Russia, the Arctic Circle, Australia, and various other locations. Fluent in Spanish and German, his diverse background and executive-level responsibilities have given him a wealth of “hands-on” operational experience in many challenging assignments throughout the world.

Awarded a full merit scholarship to Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business (MBA), Al graduated with honors in 1995. While there, he won a Worldwide Essay Contest sponsored by Air France and later contributed to the bestselling business book titled: Lessons from the Nordstrom Way by Robert Spector. In his spare time, Al enjoys playing the acoustic guitar and writing music –- and has won several awards in this arena, including honorable mention in the John Lennon Songwriting Contest. He is an active volunteer with the Ronald McDonald House charities, and is a regular contributor to the media editorials.