E
lliman expands its leadership ranks by naming Wendy Purvey chief strategy officer, following Chris Reyes’s appointment as chief technology officer. Purvey, a veteran of marketing, sales and operations with over three decades at Sotheby’s and Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty, will focus on growth, M&A, agent retention and the firm’s new international arm. Elliman International, launched in June, has already opened its first European offices, and CEO Michael Liebowitz praised Purvey’s fit for the company’s expansion plans.

    Brown Harris Stevens promotes Christopher Halstead, a 15‑year BHS veteran who most recently served as executive sales director of Connecticut, to chief strategy officer. Halstead will work from the New York City office, spearheading new initiatives, streamlining brokerage operations and supporting projects across the network. CEO Bess Freedman highlighted his talent for connecting with agents and driving strategic execution.

    American Real Estate Association appoints Mary Frances Coleman as its first executive director. Coleman, former COO of eXp Realty and CEO of Realty Executives, brings a broad background as an agent, attorney and consultancy founder. Co‑founder Jason Haber announced the hire, noting the shift from a volunteer organization to a staffed nonprofit and the launch of a paid membership program in August 2024. The new leadership is expected to increase communication, events, partnerships and member influence in the industry.