Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has named Robert Fritz executive chairman, according to a news release. Additionally, Four Seasons Founder and former Chairman Isadore Sharp will assume the role of chairman emeritus. 

Fritz has been a longtime executive at Cascade Investment, the brand’s majority shareholder, and has served as lead director on the Four Seasons board since 2022, per the release. As executive chairman, he will work closely with Four Seasons President and CEO Alejandro Reynal and the executive team to guide the company’s long-term strategy, as well as continue to lead the board.

“As a steward of the brand, I look forward to continuing to support Alejandro and the management team in maintaining the reputation of excellence Four Seasons has earned over the past 65 years,” Fritz said in a statement. 

Meanwhile, as chairman emeritus, Sharp will remain “closely involved with the company” that he founded more than 60 years ago and continue to represent the brand and engage with its people.

In a statement, Sharp said he has “great confidence” in Fritz’s leadership and in the direction the company is taking. 

"Robert has been a deeply engaged and trusted partner to me and our leadership team," Reynal said in a statement. "He shares our long-term view and our commitment to leading with intention, protecting what defines Four Seasons as we continue to grow.”

Toronto-based Four Seasons operates more than 136 hotels and resorts and 61 residential properties worldwide, with a planning and development pipeline of over 60 projects. 

Last year, the company announced plans to strategically expand its global portfolio, with the aim of operating 180 properties by 2033. In October, Four Seasons said it would bring a new luxury resort and residences to Telluride, Colorado, expanding the hospitality brand’s ski portfolio.