Pros

Starwood is a wonderful place to start a career. Management gives significant responsibility to young people and is constantly seeking to innovate. For the most part, the people are great, and the environment is collaborative. Plus, the perk of significantly discounted hotel rates isn't too bad either.

Cons

Top-heavy teams can make upward-mobility difficult. For older employees, there are few opportunities to learn new skills once you have been in a role for a few years. The location in a drab office park in White Plains, combined with a high-traffic commute can also make life a bit less enjoyable.

Advice to Senior Management

Continue to cut the fat and fire underperforming employees. More candid information in "all employee" meetings. The hotel industry is basically a commodity business...stop pretending Starwood has some huge brand edge; it doesn't.