W. Edward Walter, a seasoned executive in the hospitality industry, served as the President and CEO of Host Hotels & Resorts from 2009 until 2016. With a degree from the University of Maryland, he has a solid background in managing...

W. Edward Walter, a seasoned executive in the hospitality industry, served as the President and CEO of Host Hotels & Resorts from 2009 until 2016. With a degree from the University of Maryland, he has a solid background in managing large organizations. Under his leadership, Host Hotels made significant progress, and Walter was known for his focus on aligning the company's goals with shareholder interests. His compensation was noteworthy; in 2016, he made about $6.4 million, which included a large severance payment of over $5 million as part of his exit package when he stepped down at the end of that year. Walter has a history of substantial stock holdings, often valued at over $10 million, showcasing his confidence in the company’s future and investment strategies. During his time, he exhibited a strong trend in insider trading activity, with investments fluctuating around $9 million monthly, indicating ongoing trust in the company’s prospects. He transitioned the company through various challenges, positioning it favorably in a competitive market, reflecting his strategic approach in hospitality management.