Chairman William W. McCarten Announces Retirement from DiamondRock Hospitality After Distinguished Career
On February 25, 2026, the DiamondRock Hospitality Company (Nasdaq: DRH) revealed significant news regarding its leadership. William W. McCarten, the long-standing Chairman of the company, announced his retirement, effective at the end of the current board term, following the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders scheduled for April 29, 2026. McCarten's retirement marks the conclusion of an impressive 47-year career in the hospitality sector, during which he played an integral role in shaping the company into a leading entity.
For over two decades, McCarten has been a vital figure within DiamondRock. As the founder, inaugural CEO, and Chairman, his leadership was pivotal during times of change and evolution within the industry. Jeffrey J. Donnelly, the current CEO, acknowledged McCarten's contributions, stating, 'For more than two decades, Bill has been the cornerstone of DiamondRock. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the Company through dynamic environments, shaping DiamondRock into the organization it is today. His insight, mentorship, principled leadership, and enduring passion for hospitality will be profoundly missed.'
Reflecting on his tenure, McCarten expressed, 'It has been a great honor to serve as Chairman of DiamondRock for the past twenty-two years. I have had the privilege of working alongside an exceptional Board of Directors and management team, and I am deeply proud of the successful business that we have created together.' His heartfelt words echo the sentiments of many colleagues who have had the pleasure of working with him throughout his career.
Following McCarten's retirement, Bruce D. Wardinski will step into the role of non-executive Chairman of the Board while the number of directors will decrease from nine to eight. Wardinski is noted for his extensive experience, having previously served as Chairman for three other publicly traded hotel companies and being a member of DiamondRock's Board since 2013. 'Bruce is uniquely qualified to serve in the role of Chairman, and I look forward to collaborating with him as we pursue our shared goal of creating long-term value for our shareholders,' Donnelly stated.
DiamondRock Hospitality Company is a self-advised real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on owning, operating, and developing premium hotels and resorts in prime leisure destinations and key gateway markets. The company currently manages a portfolio of 35 high-quality hotels, offering around 9,600 rooms. With properties under recognized global brands and independent boutique hotels in the lifestyle segment, DiamondRock aims to create dynamic guest experiences while driving sustainable growth.
For further insights and updates regarding DiamondRock and its portfolio, you can visit their official website at www.drhc.com. As the company prepares for its future, the changes in leadership will undoubtedly usher in a new era while building on the solid foundation laid by McCarten. His enduring legacy will be felt in the company’s culture and strategic direction for years to come.
For over two decades, McCarten has been a vital figure within DiamondRock. As the founder, inaugural CEO, and Chairman, his leadership was pivotal during times of change and evolution within the industry. Jeffrey J. Donnelly, the current CEO, acknowledged McCarten's contributions, stating, 'For more than two decades, Bill has been the cornerstone of DiamondRock. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the Company through dynamic environments, shaping DiamondRock into the organization it is today. His insight, mentorship, principled leadership, and enduring passion for hospitality will be profoundly missed.'
Reflecting on his tenure, McCarten expressed, 'It has been a great honor to serve as Chairman of DiamondRock for the past twenty-two years. I have had the privilege of working alongside an exceptional Board of Directors and management team, and I am deeply proud of the successful business that we have created together.' His heartfelt words echo the sentiments of many colleagues who have had the pleasure of working with him throughout his career.
Following McCarten's retirement, Bruce D. Wardinski will step into the role of non-executive Chairman of the Board while the number of directors will decrease from nine to eight. Wardinski is noted for his extensive experience, having previously served as Chairman for three other publicly traded hotel companies and being a member of DiamondRock's Board since 2013. 'Bruce is uniquely qualified to serve in the role of Chairman, and I look forward to collaborating with him as we pursue our shared goal of creating long-term value for our shareholders,' Donnelly stated.
DiamondRock Hospitality Company is a self-advised real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on owning, operating, and developing premium hotels and resorts in prime leisure destinations and key gateway markets. The company currently manages a portfolio of 35 high-quality hotels, offering around 9,600 rooms. With properties under recognized global brands and independent boutique hotels in the lifestyle segment, DiamondRock aims to create dynamic guest experiences while driving sustainable growth.
For further insights and updates regarding DiamondRock and its portfolio, you can visit their official website at www.drhc.com. As the company prepares for its future, the changes in leadership will undoubtedly usher in a new era while building on the solid foundation laid by McCarten. His enduring legacy will be felt in the company’s culture and strategic direction for years to come.
Topics General Business）
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