OREA launches formal search for new CEO

The Ontario Real Estate Association has officially launched a search for a new chief executive officer following the departure of Luigi Favaro in March, the organization confirmed through a LinkedIn job posting on Thursday.

The search, conducted in partnership with leadership advisory firm Odgers, includes an application deadline of July 24. The posting outlines a detailed mandate for the role, with the organization seeking a leader to guide the association through its next phase. 

“OREA is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to lead the organization through its next phase of evolution,” the job posting states. The CEO will report to the Board of Directors and lead a team of more than 50 staff.

Strategic priorities and organizational challenges

OREA, which represents nearly 100,000 Realtors across Ontario, described the role as highly visible and central to the association’s future. The posting emphasizes the need for “a balance of strategic foresight and operational discipline” as the organization navigates what it characterized as a “rapidly evolving sector.”

The position comes at a critical moment for the association. OREA noted that the CEO must be “adept at aligning diverse perspectives and influencing across political and organizational boundaries” while acting “as a key spokesperson and relationship builder, engaging government, media, and a diverse network of stakeholders.” The job posting emphasizes that experience in advocacy, government relations or regulated sectors would be highly valuable.

The organization also says it values candidates who can “lead through change and position an organization for long-term relevance and success.” The CEO must also cultivate “a high-performing, collaborative organizational culture,” the posting notes.

Interim leadership and succession context

Cathy Polan, who stepped down as OREA president, continues in the role of interim CEO following Favaro’s permanent departure. Favaro, who was appointed to the position in July 2025 after 17 years with the association, took a leave of absence in November 2025 and subsequently departed the organization. OREA has not disclosed the circumstances surrounding his absence or departure.

The CEO search marks the second major leadership transition at the organization within a short timeframe.

The post OREA launches formal search for new CEO appeared first on REM.