SERHANT’s Shocking CTO Move Sparks Controversy—What Florida Realtors Are Hiding!

Editor's note: The real estate industry, with millions of agents and over 100,000 brokerage firms, is constantly evolving. New leaders emerge regularly, shaping the residential real estate landscape. Here’s a look at some recent executive appointments and transitions within the sector.

New Leadership in Real Estate Technology and Advocacy

SERHANT, a New York-based real estate brokerage, has appointed Greg Chan as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). With 25 years of experience in the tech industry, Chan will lead the company’s technology strategy and focus on enhancing its AI-driven platform for agents. His past roles include a significant tenure at Microsoft and nearly a decade at Amazon, where he honed his skills in software engineering and technology leadership. Most recently, he served as the CTO at Akoya, a fintech firm.

Ryan Serhant, the founder and CEO of SERHANT, expressed enthusiasm over Chan's appointment, stating, "Greg Chan joins us at a time when SERHANT. Technologies is accelerating our mission to build the most advanced AI-powered platform in real estate." Chan will be instrumental in scaling SERHANT's proprietary AI workflow automation platform—S.MPLE—which integrates various functionalities including CRM, marketing, deal management, content creation, and performance analytics.

Florida Realtors has also made headlines with the election of Chuck Bonfiglio as its president for 2026. Bonfiglio, who owns AAA Realty Group in South Florida, has actively participated in Realtor organizations at local, state, and national levels for over a decade, including serving as president of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Realtors in 2013. His focus will be on critical issues such as taxes, insurance, and housing affordability, an area of increasing concern for many Floridians amid fluctuating market conditions. Bonfiglio stated, "As the market adjusts, we're optimistic that improved conditions will help create more opportunity for Floridians."

Furthermore, Bonfiglio aims to ensure that members have reliable information to assist clients in navigating ongoing affordability challenges. "We take the responsibility of representing our members seriously and stay focused on what's in their best interest," he emphasized.

Meanwhile, the Long Island Board of Realtors (LIBOR) appointed Shaan Khan as its 2026 president. Khan, the broker/owner of RK Realty Group in Melville, highlighted the year ahead as one filled with opportunities to elevate ethical standards and demonstrate the value that Realtors provide to consumers. With Khan's involvement since 2020, LIBOR's CEO Doreen Spagnuolo praised his collaborative leadership style, which she believes will be crucial in advancing innovative programs that enhance the consumer experience.

In terms of financial management, the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) has appointed Alexandra Brinton as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). A certified public accountant with over 20 years of experience, Brinton has held senior financial roles at several organizations, including the American Association of Airport Executives. As CFO, she will oversee MBA's managerial accounting and financial operations. Peter J. Grace, MBA's chief administrative officer, noted that Brinton's strategic mindset and operational rigor will be invaluable as the association strengthens its financial operations amid current market challenges.

Lastly, Realty.com has appointed Vija Williams as its chief growth officer. Williams, who has an extensive background in real estate technology and listings, expressed her excitement for the new role through social media. Highlighting the company's commitment to expanding its tech and data infrastructure, she aims to translate these advancements into increased successes for real estate teams and agents. Williams previously worked at eXp Realty and has co-owned a luxury firm in Seattle.

As these new leaders step into pivotal roles, their focus on technology, member advocacy, and financial management reflects a broader trend in the real estate industry towards innovation and responsiveness to changing market conditions. With the ever-evolving landscape, the emphasis on AI tools, member support, and strategic financial leadership will be critical in shaping the future of real estate in America.