The Chicago Association of Realtors announced Michelle Mills Clement as its new chief executive officer. Mills Clement, who is originally from Chicago, spent five years in Seattle, most recently as the president and CEO of the Commercial Brokers Association and the association executive for the Washington State Commercial Association of Realtors.
“We are pleased to welcome Michelle to the Chicago Association of Realtors as our new CEO,” said Rebecca Thomson, president of the CAR Board of Directors. “From the very first interview, Michelle captivated us with her energy and her vision. She is thoughtful, strategic, and her attention to detail, leadership skills and connections with her association’s staff, leadership, and membership affirmed that she is the best and the brightest. We expect great things from her and have every confidence she will deliver.”
Mills Clement has experience working with a number of local associations, including positions with the Association Forum of Chicagoland, SmithBucklin Corporation, Muscular Dystrophy Association and the Boy Scouts of America.
“I’ve always had tremendous respect for the Realtor brand, so to take the lead of such a strong, dynamic Realtor organization is exciting,” Mills Clement said. “I’m looking forward to being back in my hometown and helping push CAR to the next level. I see a lot of exciting opportunities, particularly in our advocacy and in our work with some of Chicago’s underserved communities.”
Mills Clement is expected to join CAR in April and work closely with Ginger Downs, the association’s current president, as she prepares for retirement.
“I am thrilled with the selection of Michelle Mills Clement, CAE, as my successor,” Downs said. “She has the attributes, education and experience to be an outstanding CEO for the association, our industry and the greater Chicagoland community. I am confident that Michelle, working with our dedicated volunteers and exceptional staff, will exceed your expectations and enhance services which you value, now and into the future.”