Choice Hotels International Announces CEO Transition

NORTH BETHESDA, Md., May 20, 2026 // PRNewswire // -- Choice Hotels International, Inc. announced a leadership transition under which Patrick Pacious will step down as President and Chief Executive Officer. Pacious will serve as an advisor to the Company through August 31, 2026, to support the transition. The Company's Board of Directors has appointed Dominic Dragisich, Chief Growth & Strategy Officer, as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective May 20, 2026.

The Board will conduct a comprehensive search in partnership with a leading executive search firm to identify the Company's next Chief Executive Officer and will consider all qualified internal and external candidates.

Over the course of his nearly 21-year tenure with Choice Hotels, including as President and Chief Executive Officer since 2017, Pacious has held leadership roles at the Company.

"Leading Choice Hotels has been the greatest privilege of my career," said Pacious. "Together, we have built a higher-quality portfolio of hotels, a more accretive, diverse pipeline, and a capital-light model that enables the Company to capture significant opportunities ahead. Having laid the foundation for a customer-centric, AI-enabled business, in alignment with our long-term strategic plan, now is the right time for a new leader to guide Choice Hotels into its next phase of growth. I look forward to partnering with the Board, Dom and the entire leadership team to facilitate a smooth transition."

"Pat's leadership has helped define a new era for Choice Hotels. Through strategic acquisitions, disciplined portfolio growth, international expansion, and a relentless focus on franchisee success, Choice has become a more resilient and diversified company," said Stewart W. Bainum, Jr., Chairman of the Board of Directors for Choice Hotels International. "On behalf of the Board, the Bainum family and other shareholders, we thank Pat for his leadership, vision, and many contributions."

Before becoming Chief Growth & Strategy Officer, Dragisich previously served as EVP, Operations and Chief Global Brand Officer and as the Company's Chief Financial Officer from 2017 to 2023. Dragisich has helped lead the Company's strategic evolution, overseeing transformative initiatives to enhance long-term value.

"I am honored to step into the role of Interim CEO and look forward to building on the Company's strong foundation. We remain focused on delivering long-term value for our franchisees and shareholders and creating great experiences for our guests and associates," said Dragisich.

Reaffirms Full-Year 2026 Outlook

In connection with today's announcement, the Company is reaffirming its full-year 2026 financial outlook as previously disclosed. The Company remains focused on its strategic priorities and delivering long-term shareholder value.

SOURCE Choice Hotels International, Inc.

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