Twenty-five years at the heart of the group’s people strategy
Choice Hotels International has announced that Patrick Cimerola, its Chief Human Resources Officer, will retire at the end of 2026. Having joined the group in 2001, he has played a central role in the HR strategy and leadership development of the franchisor, which is headquartered in North Bethesda, Maryland.
Over more than two decades, he has supported the company through several phases of growth and transformation. Most notably, he managed chief executive successions, the integration of major acquisitions, including that of Radisson Hotels Americas, and the group’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under his leadership, Choice Hotels strengthened its reputation as an employer of choice. The group has earned recognition from several organisations for its corporate culture and for a working environment that enables its employees to grow and progress.
A transition organised over several months
Patrick Cimerola will remain Chief Human Resources Officer until December 2026. He will then serve as special advisor to the company to ensure a seamless transition at the head of the HR function.
The group has announced a comprehensive search to appoint his successor. This governance sequence begins shortly after Dominic Dragisich was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer on 31 August 2026, following an interim period that began on 20 May.
“Patrick’s impact on Choice Hotels extends far beyond human resources,” says Dom Dragisich. “For 25 years, he has helped shape the culture, values and leadership principles that have enabled our company to grow and thrive. His steady leadership, sound counsel and deep commitment to our people have left an enduring mark on this organisation. We are deeply grateful for his outstanding contribution and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”
A decades-long partnership with Stewart Bainum Jr.
Chairman of the Board Stewart Bainum Jr. highlights Patrick Cimerola’s role in the group’s transformation. “Patrick has been a trusted advisor by my side through some of the most defining moments in our company’s history. He has been the driving force behind our people strategy and fostered a resilient culture that supported our growth from a mid-sized hotel franchisor into a global industry leader. He has been a guiding light for our culture and our people.”
“I have worked with Patrick for decades and have proudly watched him grow into the strong leader he is today. I want to thank him for his commitment and partnership,” he adds.
Patrick Cimerola also looks back on his career. “It has been a privilege to represent Choice Hotels and to work alongside so many talented associates over the past 25 years. I am incredibly proud of what we have built together and grateful for the relationships and experiences that have shaped my career. Choice Hotels has always been a place where people are welcomed, valued and respected, and I am confident the company is well positioned for continued success in the years ahead.”
A franchisor of more than 7,500 hotels
Choice Hotels International is one of the largest hotel franchisors in the world. The group has more than 7,500 hotels, representing nearly 650,000 rooms, in 49 countries and territories. Its portfolio of 22 brands spans the upper upscale, midscale, extended stay and economy segments.
The group draws on its Choice Privileges loyalty programme, which has passed the 75 million-member mark. It is also pursuing an asset-light growth strategy, illustrated on the same day by the expected completion of the acquisition of Harvest Hosts, a network of overnight stopover sites for motorhome travellers.
Our analysis – Patrick Cimerola‘s successor will be the first CHRO recruited under Dominic Dragisich’s leadership. Retaining the outgoing executive as special advisor allows the group to preserve continuity in its internal culture. Choice Hotels is going through a period of governance renewal as it streamlines its portfolio and accelerates its international expansion.
At a glance by The Hospitality Tribune
Choice Hotels CHRO Patrick Cimerola to retire at end of 2026
25-year tenure at Choice Hotels International, which he joined in 2001
Led people strategy through CEO transitions, major acquisition integrations and the COVID-19 response
Remains CHRO through December 2026, then special advisor to ensure a seamless transition
Comprehensive executive search launched for his successor
Choice Hotels: 7,500+ hotels, nearly 650,000 rooms, 22 brands in 49 countries and territories
