Cendant Corp. recently consolidated its global timeshare resort operations under one leader, Franz Hanning, who was named president and CEO of the Cendant Timeshare Resort Group. He had been president and CEO of the company's Fairfield Resorts and Trendwest Resorts-North America operations.

“Both companies have similarities and differences, but this gives them an opportunity to learn from each other in terms of best practices,” says Hanning. “It's always easier to get things done when everyone is rowing in the same direction.” As example, Hanning believes the consolidated operations can share strategies and tactics in sales & marketing, customer service and development. Customer service agents will be able to represent both divisions, creating economies of scale and enhancements to training efforts.

“Also, a single technology platform and architecture will benefit both the company and our owners,” he says. “And in development we can consolidate our efforts and, where it makes sense, create projects with shared amenities and services.”