American Forest Management Announces New Chief Executive Officer

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Oct. 10, 2019) – American Forest Management, a national land management and real estate brokerage firm, today announced that industry veteran Brent Keefer has been appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective January 1, 2020. Keefer will succeed Roy Belser, who has served as interim chief executive officer for the past six months and will continue to maintain his role as Chairman of the Board.

“After a thorough and deliberate selection process, we are pleased that Brent will lead American Forest Management as we continue to elevate and expand our services while maintaining relationships with our clients,” said Roy Belser, speaking on behalf of the Board of Directors. “As a proven leader with a distinguished track record of strategic operational and investment accomplishments, we believe he has the right experience, vision and passion to lead American Forest Management in continued success.”

Keefer brings with him over 30 years of experience in leadership roles driving timberland investment opportunities, strategic business administration and increased client satisfaction. Most recently, he was the president of Hancock Timber Resource Group (HTRG) and senior managing director, head of timberland investments of its affiliated company, Hancock Natural Resource Group (HNRG). Throughout his career, he has spearheaded asset management for timberland valued at over $10 billion, overseen companies’ planning and restructuring tactics, developed senior management departments and led cross-business initiatives to emphasize a client-centric environment.

Keefer is also involved in various professional associations including: National Alliance of Forest Owners (NAFO), Board of Directors & Executive Committee; Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI), Board of Directors; member of Society of American Foresters; and a regular speaker at timberland investment conferences and seminars.

“I am honored and proud to join American Forest Management which has a great reputation for long-term client and employee retention, dynamic growth nationwide and a company culture with admirable values,” said Brent Keefer. “As leaders in the industry, I look forward to working alongside an incredible team of passionate and experienced professionals.”

In his new role as CEO, Keefer will oversee American Forest Management’s 48 offices throughout 11 regions and over 265 employees. Relocating to the company’s headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina, he will work side-by-side with the executive team and stakeholders. Keefer’s well-rounded leadership experience will help build momentum in the company’s continued expansion and encourage innovation of its core service areas.

For more information about American Forest Management, visit www.americanforestmangement.com.

About American Forest Management
American Forest Management offers a suite of services including land and habitat management, real estate, timberland inventory and sales, environmental practices and technical services. Headquartered in Charlotte, NC, American Forest Management serves clients across the country with 48 offices and oversees more than 6.5 million acres of land