Choice Hotels International president and chief operating officer Patrick Pacious will take the helm as new CEO from next year.
Choice Hotels announced the appointment and a move to vice chairman of the board for current CEO Stephen Joyce effective January 1, 2018.
Pacious’ upcoming appointment is the result of a long-term succession planning process, in which Joyce himself has taken an active role, Choice Hotels said.
"When Steve joined Choice as CEO, he was immediately impressed with Pat’s strengths and talents, and by enhancing Pat’s roles over the years, Steve ensured that Pat is the clear choice to succeed him," said Stewart Bainum, Jr., chairman of the board of directors.
"Pat demonstrates exceptional vision, and has spearheaded innovations that cement our position as a hospitality and technology leader and pioneer."
Pacious has been with Choice for more than a decade and has been instrumental in the growth of Cambria Hotels and the new Ascend Hotel Collection.
Former US Navy officer Pacious was appointed chief operating officer in January 2014 and previously held senior management consulting positions with BearingPoint and Arthur Andersen.
CEO Stephen Joyce said: "Pat is a natural leader, and I fully endorse the Board’s decision to appoint him to the helm of Choice Hotels at this time. We have worked closely together since I joined the company in 2008. I believe his strategic thinking and vision will continue to drive growth and profitability for the company."
