Ken Wingert is leaving the National Association of Realtors (NAR) to become Zillow’s head of federal government relations, the Seattle-based real estate tech company announced today.
Ken Wingert. (Credit: Linkedin)
“[Wingert] is a total pro and his understanding of the real estate industry alongside his strong and positive reputation within D.C. circles made him the right choice for us,” a spokesperson for Zillow told Inman. “We’re very excited to welcome him on board.”
Wingert has worked for NAR for the past 13 years, starting in 2005 as a political representative and most recently as a senior legislative representative since 2012. He’ll join Zillow’s office in Washington, D.C.
He started his career in politics working as an intern on former President George W. Bush’s 2000 campaign and worked as the political and communications director on Stan Thompson’s campaign when he ran for Congress as a Republican in Iowa in 2004.
“Ken has been a valuable member of NAR’s Government Affairs team,” a spokesperson for NAR said. “We wish him well in his future endeavors.”
In his new role, Wingert will work on the team with Racquel Russell, Zillow’s vice president of government relations and public affairs.
Wingert will be tasked with managing relationships with the Trump administration, Congress and key national third-party organizations to represent Zillow’s public policy interests – topics related to consumer protection and housing, the company said. He will also work to create partnerships with government, think tanks and advocacy groups.
