GSBOR names new CEO

Photo courtesy Missouri Realtors

Jeff Kester starts in his new role Aug. 31.

SBJ file photo

Miles Noennig is retiring after nearly four years leading the GSBOR.

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The Greater Springfield Board of Realtors named a successor for its retiring CEO.

Jeff Kester is slated to take on the role Aug. 31, according to an announcement to GSBOR members posted to its website. He takes over for Miles Noennig, who signaled his retirement plans earlier this year after leading the industry organization for nearly four years. Noennig came out of retirement to serve as CEO for the GSBOR after serving as CJR’s chief administrative officer, according to past Springfield Business Journal reporting.

Kester currently works as senior vice president of market development for ReeceNichols Real Estate, according to his LinkedIn profile. He's also serving as board president for the Missouri Realtors industry group, and he previously led the GSBOR board.

"Jeff and Miles have worked together for many years in their various capacities and look forward to the transition ahead of them," said Rob Bell, current GSBOR board president, in the member announcement. "Jeff has a long history as a member of GSBOR, as a salesperson and as a broker. He also has been a great volunteer leader."

Kester in 2013 and 2014 helped lead the consolidation of regional multiple listing services, when the Southwest Missouri Board of Realtors formally joined the Southern Missouri Regional MLS, according to SBJ archives. Noennig said via email the GSBOR is a member with six other organizations in the Southern Missouri Regional MLS. GSBOR also serves as the MLS' general manager, keeping the books and providing staffing, he said.

At the GSBOR, Kester will head an organization with some 2,300 members, according to SBJ list research in May. The GSBOR provides advocacy and resources to real estate agents in Greene, Christian and Webster counties, according to its website. It was assembled in 1933.