Hyatt Executive Chairman Thomas Pritzker Steps Down Amid Epstein Ties

Thomas Pritzker, 75, has resigned as executive chairman of Hyatt Hotels Corporation following the release of documents revealing his extensive communication with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his associate, Ghislaine Maxwell. Pritzker acknowledged exercising “terrible judgment” in maintaining contact with the pair and stated his departure is necessary to protect the company.

Pritzker’s Resignation and Statement

Pritzker announced his resignation on Monday, February 16, 2026, after discussions with the Hyatt board. In a statement released by the Pritzker Organization, he expressed deep regret over his association with Epstein, and Maxwell. “Great stewardship too means protecting Hyatt, particularly in the context of my association with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell which I deeply regret,” Pritzker said. Source: Chicago Sun-Times He further condemned their actions and expressed sorrow for the pain inflicted on their victims.

Details of the Communications

The recently released documents, stemming from a Department of Justice release of materials related to Epstein, show that Pritzker exchanged at least 20 emails with Epstein over several years following Epstein’s 2008 plea deal on sex crimes charges. Source: Chicago Sun-Times The emails, spanning from at least 2010 to early 2019, discussed current events and plans for future meetings. Source: The Independent

One email exchange from 2018, reported by multiple outlets, involved Epstein requesting Pritzker’s assistance in arranging a trip to Asia for Karyna Shuliak, reportedly Epstein’s girlfriend. Source: The Independent

A 2003 email exchange between Maxwell and Pritzker revealed a discussion about guests at a dinner party, where Maxwell listed five models who would be “serving girls.” Pritzker suggested the invited guests should be servers and the models should be guests, stating, “This would be far more fun.” Source: The Modern York Times

Succession and Company Status

Mark Hoplamazian, the current president and chief executive of Hyatt, has been named the new chairman of the board, effective immediately. Source: NBC Chicago Pritzker, who had served as executive chairman since 2004, stated he believes Hyatt is in a strong position to continue thriving. Source: NBC Chicago

Broader Implications

Pritzker is the latest prominent figure to step down from a leadership position following revelations from the Epstein files. Recent resignations include Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem of DP World, Kathy Ruemmler of Goldman Sachs, and Brad Karp of Paul Weiss. Source: The New York Times Casey Wasserman also announced plans to sell his business due to the fallout from the exposed communications. Source: The New York Times

Hyatt Hotels Corporation operates more than 1,450 hotels and resorts worldwide, employing over 220,000 staff, and includes brands such as Park Hyatt and Secrets Resorts & Spas. Source: NBC Chicago