Jeffrey Baker is CEO of Illinois Realtors, one of the largest and most-influential trade groups in the state, representing 48,000-plus members engaged in all facets of the commercial and residential real estate industry. Illinois Realtors advocates at every level of government on behalf of brokers, homeowners, landlords, renters and business owners and promotes the state’s commercial real estate sector to national and international investors.

Baker has led the state association since 2020, after having previously served as the group’s associate general counsel and deputy CEO. He is just the fourth full-time leader of the association in its more than 100-year history.
Under his guidance, Illinois Realtors has stepped up efforts to make housing stability and affordability the top issues of elected officials at the local and state levels. Illinois Realtors is the state’s leading housing advocate and has made working to address the state’s housing shortage a top priority.

Baker served on Gov. JB Pritzker’s Missing Middle Housing Solutions Advisory Committee that developed initiatives and policy solutions to bring more medium-density housing to Illinois.

And this legislative session, he spearheaded the association’s push for measures aimed at increasing housing supply, helping first-time homebuyers, and tackling zoning and local regulations that hinder growth.

“A strong housing market that offers opportunities for all is essential,” Baker says. “We are dedicated to advocating for public policy that encourages greater investment in a diverse range of housing options that provides the affordability and stability Illinois needs.”

Serving on the board of directors of Intersect Illinois, Baker is also helping to bring businesses and jobs to the state. He also is working nationally to enhance the real estate industry as the 2026 Association Leadership Liaison for the National Association of Realtors.