Hyatt chairman resignation follows Epstein files
The Hyatt chairman resignation made headlines after new Epstein files surfaced. Billionaire Thomas Pritzker confirmed he would step down from his role at Hyatt Hotels.
He admitted he showed “terrible judgment” by keeping contact with Jeffrey Epstein. As a result, he chose to leave after talks with the board.
Pritzker Accepts Responsibility
Pritzker has served as executive chairman of Hyatt since 2004. However, newly released documents showed he stayed in touch with Epstein after the 2008 plea deal.
He said strong leadership requires accountability and a smooth transition. Therefore, he decided not to stand for re-election. Pritzker also expressed regret over his links to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. He said he condemned their actions and should have cut ties earlier. Maxwell was convicted in 2021 for her role in the trafficking scheme. Epstein had pleaded guilty to sex charges in 2008 and died in custody in 2019.
New Leadership At Hyatt
The Hyatt board quickly named a successor. President and CEO Mark Hoplamazian will now serve as chairman. Hoplamazian praised Pritzker’s decades of service to the company. In addition, he said the decision reflects a focus on long term stability. Pritzker also noted he will turn 76 this year. He added that Hyatt stands in a strong and sustainable position.
Wider Scrutiny Across Industries
The Epstein files have drawn attention to many high profile figures. However, appearing in the documents does not prove wrongdoing.
For example, Goldman Sachs lawyer Kathy Ruemmler said she would leave her role. Emails in the files showed she had a close relationship with Epstein, though she denied any knowledge of crimes.
Similarly, Paul Weiss chairman Brad Karp stepped down after reports about his past emails with Epstein. The law firm said he never witnessed or took part in misconduct.
As a result, the new disclosures continue to reshape leadership across major institutions.
