Choice Hotels International announces CEO transition; Dominic Dragisich appointed Interim CEO
Choice Hotels International has announced a leadership transition with Patrick Pacious stepping down as President and Chief Executive Officer.
He will continue to support the company in an advisory capacity through August 31, 2026.
The company's Board of Directors has appointed Dominic Dragisich, currently Chief Growth & Strategy Officer, as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective May 20, 2026, while a search is undertaken to identify a permanent successor.
Patrick Pacious has been associated with Choice Hotels for nearly 21 years and has served as CEO since 2017. During his tenure, the company expanded its brand portfolio, strengthened its presence in upscale and extended-stay segments through acquisitions such as WoodSpring Suites and Radisson Hotels Americas, and advanced its international franchising and digital capabilities. He also played a role in driving overall financial and operational growth for the organisation.
Patrick Pacious"Leading Choice Hotels has been the greatest privilege of my career," said Patrick 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."
Dominic Dragisich brings extensive leadership experience within the company. Prior to his current role, he served as Chief Financial Officer from 2017 to 2023 and has also held positions including EVP, Operations and Chief Global Brand Officer. His experience includes overseeing strategic initiatives, acquisitions, and growth-focused programmes across the business.
In his interim role, Dragisich will oversee overall operations and strategic direction while the company continues its executive search process.
Commenting on his new role, Dominic said, "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."
Stewart W. BainumStewart W. Bainum, Jr., Chairman of the Board of Directors, Choice Hotels International, said, "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. On behalf of the Board, the Bainum family and other shareholders, we thank Pat for his leadership, vision, and many contributions."
He added, "Choice Hotels is a stronger Company today with a solid operational and financial foundation, a talented leadership team and significant long-term growth potential. The Board has full confidence in Dom's leadership and the Company's continued momentum as we conduct a comprehensive search process for Choice's next CEO."
For more updates on travel, tourism, hospitality, aviation leadership appointments and movements, you may explore Safari India's regular industry coverage.