CHICAGO (January 6, 2025) – The IREM® (Institute of Real Estate Management) Board of Directors is excited to announce that Zack Wahlquist, FASAE, CAE, RCE, will serve as IREM’s Chief Executive Officer/Executive Vice President, effective Jan. 21, 2025.
2025 IREM President, Dawn Carpenter, CPM®, adds, “The IREM CEO Search Task Force has found the very best person to lead the talented international IREM headquarters team. While the Task Force was impressed with the outstanding group of candidates, Zack’s experience within the real estate industry along with his background in association management makes him the right fit for IREM. We couldn’t be more excited for what’s to come under his leadership.”
Wahlquist comes to IREM from the Chicago Association of REALTORS® (CAR) where he’s served as their COO since 2022. He also served as CAR’s Executive Vice President from 2019-2022.
Wahlquist holds an M.S. in Higher Education and Student Affairs and a B.A. in Political Science. He’s a fellow of the American Society of Association Executives (FASAE) and holds their Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation. He’s also earned the REALTOR® Association Certified Executive (RCE) certification from the National Association of REALTORS®.
Zack was recognized with the Association Forum’s Professional Achievement Award in October 2023. He also serves as a Board Member of the Illinois Chapter of the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance and as a Board Member of Ada S. McKinley Community Services, Inc. In addition, Zack volunteers with the American Society of Association Executives, Association Forum, and local arts organizations.
When asked about leading IREM, Zack says, “Since transitioning into the world of real estate five years ago, I’ve come to love the people in this industry. And the IREM leaders and community I’ve met so far are no different; incredibly thoughtful, kind, and committed to the industry and to IREM. I’m honored to have the opportunity to lead such a well-regarded organization already doing incredible things. I’m excited to see what the future holds for IREM and its members.”
About IREM
For over 90 years, our members have made us the world’s strongest voice for all things real estate management. Almost 18,000 leaders in commercial and residential management call this home for education, support, and networking. Our CPM, ARM, ACoM, AMO and CSP certifications are internationally recognized symbols of ethical leadership and a well-managed property. And our tools deliver decades of on-the-job know-how to help members get even better at what they do. Put simply – IREM and its members are here to elevate the profession. If you know real estate management, come get to know us. irem.org.
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