Columbus REALTORS® is proud to announce that Brent Swander, RCE, will assume the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) position effective immediately.
As CEO, Swander will work closely with the association’s board of directors to provide strategic leadership, innovation and policy direction and interpretation while overseeing management of the Association, its MLS and Foundation.
“When we realized there was an interested candidate already on staff, our search committee worked swiftly to start the process of confirming what we already knew. Given Brent’s diverse experience and success in working with members, government officials and the community, we reached a unanimous decision,” said Michael Jones, 2021 President of Columbus REALTORS®.
“We look forward to working together to provide valuable services to our members and the real estate community.”
To that end, Swander brings valuable experience in advocacy, campaign management, communications, media relations, event management and budgeting.
Vice President of Government Affairs for Columbus REALTORS® since 2013, Swander has been responsible for advocating Columbus REALTORS® public policy agenda and managing the association’s PAC (Political Action Committee).
He also consults with other REALTOR® associations across the country on governance and meeting management.
Prior to joining the REALTORS®, Swander worked in Federal politics for over ten years for high-level campaigns across the country.
He has served in The White House, on three US Presidential Campaigns, as Political Director for a Congressional Campaign and as Campaign Manager for a candidate for Ohio Auditor in 2010. He has also served roles at the 2016 Cleveland Debate, 2017 Presidential Inaugural Committee and to Senator John McCain’s Funeral Services in Arizona in 2018.
Swander has appeared on WBNS – 10TV as a regular guest on Face the State with then host Scott Light and also CBS Morning News.
He holds the REALTOR® Certified Executive (RCE) professional designation which exemplifies goal-oriented association executives with drive, experience, and commitment to professional growth.
“Our members are community leaders and advocates who provide invaluable service to home and business owners across central Ohio,” said Swander.
“In taking on this new role, I look forward to working with members and community stakeholders to provide more housing, more affordable housing and a stronger, more sustainable real estate community and economy.”
A native of Convoy, Ohio (Van Wert County) and graduate of Bowling Green State University, Swander currently resides in Dublin, Ohio with his wife Lauren and two children.
