Charlie Young works by the philosophy, “don’t bring problems; learn to bring solutions.” As president and CEO of ERA Real Estate, Young is responsible for the strategic growth of one of the world’s leading real estate franchisors. He manages relationships with member brokers and works to make them more profitable and oversees the field services team, operations and national training program. As part of his business philosophy, Young also believes one of his key responsibilities is to deliver value every day to team and franchise members.

Since becoming president and CEO in April 2009, Young has led the rebuilding and repositioning of the ERA® brand. Not one to look back, Young is always looking ahead to see what he can accomplish and how he can positively affect business. By traveling around the globe, Young is able to connect with the local community and understand the market needs through franchise owners and local real estate agents. He recently traveled to Singapore to celebrate the 30th anniversary of ERA Singapore.

Young has more than 20 years of experience in business management, field operations, marketing and real estate. Prior to joining ERA Real Estate, Young worked his way up at Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, from senior vice president, marketing to chief operating officer. During his five-year tenure, Young spearheaded several innovative programs that served as industry firsts while establishing him as a recognized industry leader. When he was offered a senior leadership position with Coldwell Banker, he instead accepted the role of CEO at ERA because he felt there was more opportunity for large-scale growth.

Previously, Young gained significant real estate field operations experience when he served as a vice president for then Cendant Mortgage (now PHH Mortgage) where he worked closely with brokers in the ERA, Coldwell Banker® and CENTURY 21® systems to implement private-labeled mortgage programs. Before moving to real estate, Young held executive positions at Frequency Marketing Inc., Foote, Cone & Belding Direct, Bell Atlantic (Verizon) Directory Services and the New Jersey Nets.

Young firmly believes every young professional should take time out to fulfill their passion – whether it be travel or volunteerism – before heading to the workforce. He believes the year he spent after college as a Rotary Youth Exchange student where he traveled around Europe and South Africa participating in various public speaking engagements was one of his more invaluable experiences. He credits much of his successful career and life to what he learned in that program in his early twenties. The more confident a person is, the more value they can deliver in any industry, while accelerating career advancement.

Young holds a BA in political science from Emory University. He is a devoted husband, father of two and passionate outdoorsman, choosing to spend his free time sailing, golfing and skiing.