TAMMY NEALE | CEO, Virginia Housing

Tammy Neale, who in 2024 was named CEO of the self-supporting state organization helping Virginians attain affordable housing, has overseen the investment of $730 million in financing that has created over 4,000 housing units. Virginia Housing has also supported more than 4,500 single-family mortgage loans totaling over $1.4 billion, with 96% of borrowers receiving financial backing from the organization, previously known as the Virginia Housing Development Authority.

Though she’s newish in the top role, Neale has been at Virginia Housing for four decades. Starting out as a paralegal, Neale steadily climbed the ranks, serving as managing director of human resources and then managing director of organizational development and learning, followed by chief of staff and chief of programs.

“Having been in multiple and very diverse roles at the organization, Tammy has a unique vantage point of Virginia Housing that makes her an effective and robust leader,” her nominator says.

Despite her many years of experience, Neale knew there was more to learn. After being named CEO, she went on a statewide listening tour, meeting with associates and partners across the commonwealth.

“Tammy understood the importance [of hearing] directly from the stakeholders who have [an] impact on the success of the organization and could potentially challenge her current perceptions of the company,” Neale’s nominator says. “She welcomes feedback, input and open dialogue.”

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