US: Sonder announced today that seasoned executive Frits van Paaschen has joined its board of directors.
Van Paaschen will join the company’s CEO, as well as members from a variety of venture capital firms who have invested in the start-up.
Serving as an informal advisor for months now, van Paaschen brings over a decade of experience at Fortune 500 companies to the rising platform. His previous achievements include work with Nike and Disney, as well as eight years as the CEO of Starwood Resorts.
He also served in an advisory role for CitizenM hotels in 2017
In prior positions, van Paaschen led the charge with both technological and practical innovations and intends to bring that spirit to Sonder. His book, The Disruptor’s Feast, focuses on how companies can better navigate the rapidly shifting nature of the modern digital economy.
Van Paaschen spoke of his future with Sonder: “As a life-long traveller to more than a hundred countries, I’m truly impressed by what the team at Sonder is working to build every day and how it has already helped reshape accommodations. I’m thrilled to be joining the board of an incredible company that’s delivering amazing experiences to guests around the world – the hospitality industry is ripe for innovation, and Sonder is leading the charge.”
Sonder saw an impressive year of business in 2019, raising $225m worth of series D funding, leading to a valuation of near $1 billion. They’ve also expanded into traditional hotel markets, with a property open in Denver and planned for Miami, while doubling their listings worldwide.
CEO and co-founder Francis Davidson said: “Frits is one of the world’s most respected leaders in business and hospitality, and I couldn’t be more excited that he’s joining our board. I’ve long considered Frits an inspiration and know Sonder will benefit tremendously from the wisdom and experience he brings to the table”Frits van Paasschen
