Wielgus previously had been senior vice president, marketing, a position he assumed when he joined Choice in September 2000.

"Wayne has shaped an integrated marketing program that has increased business delivery to our hotels through all reservations channels," said Charles A. Ledsinger, Jr., president and chief executive officer. "His innovative marketing campaigns have raised awareness of our hotel brands, built a new identity with consumers and forged effective marketing partnerships with major airlines and other leading companies."

"Looking to our future, marketing will play an even greater role as we work with our hotels to build guest satisfaction and solidify Choice's leadership position in the segments in which we operate," he added.

Wielgus is a graduate of Fairfield University and holds an M.B.A. degree from Memphis State University. A travel industry veteran, he joined Choice after serving as senior vice president, marketing, at Best Western. He also has held executive marketing positions with Forte Hotels, Inter-Continental Hotels, Ramada Hotels and Holiday Inn.

Choice Hotels International is one of the world's largest lodging franchisors, marketing more than 5,000 hotels open or under development in 44 countries under the Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Clarion, Sleep Inn, Econo Lodge, MainStay Suites and Rodeway Inn brand names.