The Real Estate Institute of Australia has just appointed LJ Hooker’s Head of Real Estate, Christopher Mourd, to its board. Mourd will be an independent board member on the REIA board.

He is the eighth board member on the institution's panel, which is led by directors who guide the strategic direction and policy goals of the organisation. The board works with the CEO and an experienced management team to achieve outcomes for the institute and its members. The board consists of one representative from each state or territory, nominated by the respective state or territory Real Estate Institute.

"It is a great honour to be included on the REIA board as the only independent director," said Mourd. "REIA work to represent the real estate sector on a range of varied and important issues liaising with key representatives from Federal Government, the opposition, as well as professional members of the real estate sector, media and the public."

Mourd said the appointment provides a great opportunity for LJ Hooker to be at the forefront of the industry on a range of issues affecting the property market like the negative gearing debate.

REIA Board members also include Neville Sanders, REIA President; Hayden Groves, Deputy President (WA); Diane Davis, Board Director (NT); Joseph Walton, Board Director (REIV); Greg Moulton, Board Director (SA); Stan Platis, Board Director (ACT); Adrian Kelly, Board Director (Tas).