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Choice Hotels International has announced Jeff Lobb will serve as senior vice president and general counsel and secretary starting 26 March.
In his new capacity, Lobb will be responsible for the lodging franchiser’s global legal and public policy strategy and operations. As a primary part of the company’s executive leadership team, he will report directly to its president and chief executive officer Pat Pacious.
He will take over from Simone Wu, who is set for retirement later this spring after a “distinguished tenure” with the business.
The firm said Lobb and Wu will collaborate closely together in the next few weeks to guarantee a smooth and well-planned handover.
Lobb will step into his new role with around 20 years of experience at Choice Hotels under his belt, having most recently worked as deputy general counsel to oversee the company’s corporate, finance and transactions teams and play a central role in corporate governance and board administration.
The franchiser also said he has been an important legal partner on various strategic initiatives, such as corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, investments, real estate ventures and large commercial agreements.
It added he has become known as a reliable, trusted in‑house advisor to senior leadership and the board, with a reputation for navigating complex legal and business matters that advance the company’s long‑term strategy.
Before coming to Choice Hotels, Lobb practiced law at several firms in Washington DC.
Jeff Lobb said: “I’m honored to step into this role and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving Choice Hotels. This is a company with a strong culture, clear values, and a long history of doing what’s right for its associates, franchisees, shareholders, and guests. I look forward to building on that foundation and supporting Choice Hotels’ continued growth and success.”
Pat Pacious, president and chief executive officer at Choice Hotels International, added: “Simone has been a trusted leader and strategic partner to the board, management team, and associates for more than 14 years – guiding Choice Hotels through many pivotal moments with integrity, discernment and deep care for our people. We are incredibly grateful for her contributions and leadership, and we wish her all the best as she begins her next chapter.
“Jeff is a leader whose deep legal expertise, steady judgment, and long history with Choice Hotels make him exceptionally well suited to serve as our next SVP, General Counsel and Secretary. For nearly two decades, Jeff has been a thoughtful advisor and valued partner across the organization, helping guide some of our most complex and strategic initiatives. I’m confident he will continue to be an outstanding steward of our values and business as we look ahead.”
