Koren has taken on the assignment as vice president of operations for W Hotels and is now based at the hotelier's offices in White Plains, Starwood officials say. He replaces Guy Hensley, who was previously named a regional vice president and heads up all of Starwood's flagged properties out of its New Orleans regional office.

Koren will be responsible for the future development of the W brand and will also oversee the 16 existing properties that comprise the W hotel portfolio. He most recently was area manager of Starwood's award winning luxury properties -- Costa Smeralda and Malta hotels in Spain.

"We are delighted to be able to attract such a uniquely talented candidate like Robert, who possesses exceptional experience with some of the most highly-rated hotels in the world, to lead W to new heights of innovation and success," says Barry S. Sternlicht, chairman and chief executive officer of Starwood. "Robert brings with him a wealth of international hotel experience after holding top operations positions that span across four continents, and his appointment marks Starwood's commitment to the progression and further global development of the W Brand."