Hyatt Hotels Corporation Executive Chairman Thomas Pritzker announced Monday that he is stepping down from his leadership role and will not seek reelection to the company’s board, acknowledging regret over his past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Pritzker, 75, who has served as executive chairman for more than 20 years, said his departure is effective immediately. In a statement released by the Pritzker Organization, he emphasized the importance of responsible leadership and a smooth transition at the global hotel chain.
“My responsibility has always been to provide sound stewardship,” Pritzker said. “That includes ensuring Hyatt moves forward with stability and strong governance.”
Regret Over Past Associations
Pritzker expressed remorse for maintaining contact with Epstein and his associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, even after Epstein’s 2008 plea deal in Florida. Epstein had pleaded guilty to state charges related to soliciting prostitution, including an offense involving a minor. He later died by suicide in 2019 while in federal custody awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
Recently unsealed documents revealed cordial email exchanges between Pritzker and Epstein following the 2008 plea agreement. While inclusion in the document release does not suggest wrongdoing, the disclosures have intensified public scrutiny of prominent figures once linked to Epstein.
“I exercised terrible judgment in remaining in contact and should have distanced myself sooner,” Pritzker said. “I condemn the actions of Epstein and Maxwell and feel deep sorrow for the suffering they caused.”
Focus Shifts to Philanthropy
Following his resignation, Pritzker said he plans to dedicate more time to a scientific research foundation he founded. His exit is the latest in a string of departures by prominent business leaders whose past connections to Epstein have come under renewed examination.
Among those who recently stepped down are Kathryn Ruemmler, former legal chief at Goldman Sachs, and Brad Karp, chair of Paul Weiss. Both cited concerns that media attention surrounding their prior associations had become a distraction for their organizations.
Leadership Transition at Hyatt
Hyatt’s board has appointed CEO Mark Hoplamazian to assume the role of chairman effective immediately. Board member Richard Tuttle praised Pritzker’s decades of leadership, noting his instrumental role in shaping the Chicago-based company’s long-term strategy and global growth.
The transition marks a significant chapter in Hyatt’s corporate history, as the hospitality giant seeks to move forward amid heightened attention on governance, accountability, and ethical oversight at the highest levels of business leadership.
