CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL INC /DE 8-K

What Happened Choice Hotels International filed an 8-K on February 20, 2026 announcing that Simone Wu, Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary & External Affairs, informed the company she intends to retire in the first half of 2026. Ms. Wu will remain in her current role until a successor is appointed and will work with the company to ensure an orderly transition.

Key Details

• Filing date: February 20, 2026 (Form 8-K, Item 5.02).
• Executive: Simone Wu, Senior VP, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary & External Affairs.
• Timing: Retirement intended in the first half of 2026; will stay on through successor appointment to assist transition.
• Compensation/benefits: Ms. Wu will receive benefits under the company’s compensation and benefit plans and under her Non-Competition, Non-Solicitation & Severance Benefit Agreement (originally dated Feb 13, 2012; amended Mar 25, 2013 and Dec 31, 2025).

Why It Matters This is a material executive change affecting Choice Hotels’ top legal and corporate governance officer. The company disclosed no successor or additional severance payments beyond existing agreements, and Ms. Wu will continue in her role during the transition. Investors should note the need to watch for announcements about a successor and any future disclosures about transition costs or governance updates.