Leadership Grounded in Values, Curiosity, and Service

‍Tony Capuano’s leadership journey began with an early fascination for real estate and hospitality economics, shaped through consulting roles at Laventhol & Horwath and Kenneth Leventhal. His exposure to diverse project types, valuation work for the RTC, and underwriting from an owner’s perspective built a strong analytical foundation before joining Marriott in 1995. Over nearly three decades, he progressed through feasibility, development, and global leadership roles, guided by mentors like Jim Sullivan and Arne Sorenson, whose counsel shaped his approach to deals, negotiations, and leading with humility. 

Capuano highlights Marriott’s enduring value of putting people first, a principle carried forward through initiatives like the “Be” employer brand that encourages associates to begin, belong, and become. He describes Take Care as a holistic support system focused on physical wellbeing, financial fluency, and mental resilience, reflecting Marriott’s commitment to viewing associates as whole people. He credits culture and core values for guiding the company through pandemic-era challenges and creating alignment across a far-reaching global organization. Lessons from Bill Marriott and Arne Sorenson, especially listening deeply, staying humble, and asking “What do you think?” continue to shape his leadership approach. 

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• “If you take care of the associates… the customers will come back again and again.”
• “Our companies will succeed or fail based on our ability to… develop and retain our key talent.”
• “The four most important words are: what do you think?”
• “We learn much more from challenges… than we do from success.”
• “There is no substitute for hard work.” 

Closing Reflection

‍Capuano’s story reflects the power of values-driven leadership anchored in humility, curiosity, and service. He shows that listening, continuous learning, and a commitment to people create alignment even in complex global environments. His belief in hard work, presence, and genuine engagement reminds us that leadership is built moment by moment, through character, consistency, and the drive to keep growing.