Christie’s International Real Estate has named Gavin Swartzman as its new president, a move it says will supercharge the firm’s global growth ambition.
Swartzman most recently served as CEO of Toronto-based Peerage Realty Partners, a holding company with brokerage operations across North America, including Sotheby’s Canada. Under his leadership, Peerage climbed to become the tenth-largest real estate company in the U.S., according to the 2024 T360 Mega 1000 report.
Recognized as one of the 50 most influential leaders in the industry by the 2025 Swanepoel Power 200, Swartzman’s background spans mergers and acquisitions, franchise development, finance, asset management and consulting in both public and private sectors.
Swartzman will officially step into the role next month.
A full-circle moment
Swartzman’s connection to Christie’s dates back to his early real estate days with long-time affiliate Chestnut Park in Toronto—an experience he described as formative.
“My initial exposure to the distinctive enterprise of luxury real estate was through my work with long-time Christie’s International Real Estate affiliate Chestnut Park,” he said in a statement. “This formative experience… established my passion for this specialized segment of the business and the people who support it.”
Now, Swartzman will take the helm at Christie’s International Real Estate, overseeing global expansion and strategic development for the luxury brand, which spans more than 100 member firms in over 50 countries and territories.
Christie’s enters new era under Compass
The appointment comes at a pivotal time for the brand. In early 2025, Christie’s was acquired by Compass.
“Gavin brings a resume and skillset to Christie’s International Real Estate that is one of one,” said Thad Wong, co-CEO, Christie’s International Real Estate. “I can’t name another leader in this industry who has overseen multiple brokerage firms, has walked in the shoes of our affiliates and has experience with some of the most respected brands in luxury real estate…”
Mike Golden, co-CEO, Christie’s International Real Estate, echoed the sentiment, highlighting Swartzman’s leadership style, “What stands out even more is how the people who have worked with him talk about his character and his human qualities as a leader.”
Swartzman says he’s excited that the company has the “opportunity to be the preeminent luxury real estate brand in the world.” He adds, “I’m very much looking forward to collaborating with our affiliates, agents and management team to realize that vision.”
