Dominic Dragisich Takes the Helm as President and CEO of Choice Hotels International

Choice Hotels International Welcomes New Leadership

Choice Hotels International, Inc. has recently announced an important leadership change within its ranks, appointing Dominic Dragisich as the new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective August 31, 2026. This key decision underscores the company’s commitment to steering its future and growth in the competitive hospitality industry.

Dragisich has been serving as the Interim Chief Executive Officer since May 20, 2026, bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record to the position. With nearly a decade at Choice Hotels, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and a deep understanding of the company’s operations, financial management, and brand growth strategies. Stewart Bainum Jr., the Chairman of the Board, expressed his confidence in Dragisich’s abilities, noting his leadership has already significantly advanced the company's strategic priorities and fostered a performance-driven culture within the organization.

The Board of Directors conducted a thorough search, evaluating both internal and external candidates, ultimately concluding that Dragisich was the optimal choice to build upon Choice Hotels' recent achievements. His past roles at Choice include Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President of Operations, and Chief Growth and Strategy Officer. His extensive background has been pivotal in guiding major acquisitions and launching key initiatives that have expanded the company’s portfolio and bolstered its competitive standing.

Prior to joining Choice Hotels, Dragisich served as Chief Financial Officer at XO Communications, where he successfully navigated the company through a significant recovery phase. He also held senior financial and operational roles at notable companies such as Marriott International, NII Holdings, and Deloitte Consulting, which all contributed to his vast expertise in the industry.

In his acceptance of the new role, Dragisich stated, “I am honored by the Board's confidence and grateful for the opportunity to continue leading Choice Hotels. With a talented team, a higher-quality portfolio, a more diverse pipeline, and substantial opportunities ahead, we are entering this next chapter from a position of strength. We remain focused on disciplined execution, accelerating growth, and strengthening our brands by capitalizing on our commercial investments.” His vision emphasizes collaboration with franchisees to ensure their success while consistently enhancing guest experiences across the wide-ranging portfolio of Choice Hotels.

Choice Hotels operates over 7,500 hotels across 49 countries, with a diverse array of 22 brands catering to various customer needs, from upscale to economy lodging options. This extensive reach allows Choice Hotels to provide valuable services to travelers while maximizing benefits for franchise owners and shareholders alike.

The company's robust rewards program, Choice Privileges, further enriches the guest experience by offering members an easy way to accumulate rewards and gain personalized perks. As Dragisich steps into his new role, the industry will undoubtedly watch closely how he leverages his comprehensive insights and innovative mindset to advance Choice Hotels’ legacy and drive long-term value.

In summary, Dominic Dragisich’s appointment as President and CEO significantly positions Choice Hotels International for continued growth and success. His vast experience, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence are set to enhance the company’s trajectory within the dynamic hospitality landscape. With a renewed focus on innovation and operational excellence, the future indeed looks promising for Choice Hotels and its franchise partners.