Editor’s Note: This story is developing and will be updated.
Choice Hotels International announced that Patrick Pacious will step down as president and CEO, effective May 20. The company did not provide a reason for his departure.
Choice has appointed Dominic Dragisich, chief growth and strategy officer, as interim CEO. The board of directors will conduct a “comprehensive search in partnership with a leading executive search firm” to identify the company’s next chief executive officer, considering all qualified internal and external candidates, according to a Wednesday news release.
Pacious will serve as an adviser to Choice Hotels through Aug. 31, 2026, to support the leadership transition. He has worked at the company for nearly 21 years, taking over as CEO in 2017, per the company.
Dragisich becomes interim CEO after nine years at the company. Before becoming chief growth and strategy officer, he served as executive vice president of operations and chief global brand officer. He also served as Choice Hotels’ chief financial officer from 2017 to 2023.
“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,” Dragisich said in a statement.
