Matt Avril named CEO of Diamond Resorts

Diamond Resorts International, has announced that Matt Avril has taken over the role of chief executive officer effective 1 January 2017.

In his previous role as chief executive officer of Starwood Vacation Ownership from 2015 and 2016, Avril led the day-to-day operations of the company and led the SEC process for the planned public company spinoff that was valued at approximately $1.3 billion.

With more than 30 years’ experience in executive leadership roles, principally in the hospitality and vacation ownership industries, Avril held senior positions within Starwood Hotels and at Starwood Vacation Ownership including serving as president of Starwood’s Global Hotel Group, where he led worldwide operations for Starwood’s nine hotel brands at over 1,000 properties in more than 100 countries.

Matt Avril

On his appointment, Avril, said: “I am very excited for the opportunity to lead Diamond Resorts. It is incredible to see what this team has accomplished. I look forward to the road ahead as we continue to enhance our guest experience and continue to focus on strategic goals and initiatives across the business.”

David Palmer retired as president and CEO of the company on 31 December 2016, but will continue to support Diamond Resorts over the next two years through an advisory role with Apollo Global Management.

He said: “I have known Matt for several years and am very pleased that he has accepted this role. I have complete confidence in him and have no doubt that with his background and undeniable track record, he is prepared to lead the global team to new heights.”

Michael Flaskey, executive vice president and chief Sales and Marketing officer, will assume the role of president of Vacation Ownership for Diamond Resorts.