Franco SterlWorldHotels, a global sales, marketing and distribution company is further strengthening its online focus by appointing Franco Sterl as Director E-Commerce. Sterl, who joined the group this month, will be based in Berlin, Germany. Two years ago, WorldHotels introduced World Online, a program designed to drive additional direct bookings to independent hotels and the appointment of Sterl is a further indication of the company's commitment to expanding its digital marketing capabilities. "We are very glad to welcome Franco to our group. Franco's priorities will be to grow the WorldHotels E-Commerce team, to maximize the production through our member hotels' own websites and ultimately position WorldHotels as a key partner for our members' digital marketing needs. With his proven track record in the online world, Franco will help Worldhotels to expand the groups' focus on digital expertise and services", says Geoff Andrew, CEO of WorldHotels. Sterl is a digital expert with more than 10 years' experience working with global hotel groups and chains. Most recently before joining Worldhotels, Sterl worked as Director of Digital Marketing & eCommerce and Member of the Executive Board at Leonardo Hotels Europe in Berlin, where he restructured the former E-Commerce department and successfully introduced the "NYX by Leonardo Hotels" brand on the European market. He has also served as eCommerce Manager at B&B Hotels GmbH, where he managed the eCommerce department and the strategic management and development of the company website.