TERRIE L. SUIT

During the past decade, Suit has served as CEO of the largest trade association in Virginia, advocating on behalf of more than 38,000 Realtors across the state. In addition to lobbying and advocacy work, the association produces economic research and offers continuing education opportunities. A Republican state delegate from 2000 to 2008, Suit was also Virginia’s first secretary of Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security from 2011 to 2013. She also had a 20-year mortgage lending career as a mortgage loan officer and broker.

In addition to those jobs, Suit has chaired multiple committees for the National Association of Realtors and serves on the board of visitors for the University of Mary Washington, from which she earned an MBA. Suit has also served on the boards of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Hampton Roads (now Lead757) and the Hampton Roads Realtors Association.

When asked what leadership means to her, Suit says it means “being decisive, making difficult decisions after seeking and considering input and taking responsibility for the outcomes.” 

As CEO of Virginia Realtors, staff development is a key priority for Suit. Each staff member participates in a professional development opportunity of their choosing each year — such as conferences, workshops or courses.

Read more about the 2023 class of Virginia Business Women in Leadership Award winners.