IRVINE, CA-The California Apartment Association has named Tommy Thompson executive director of its South Coast Division, bringing to the state's most respected voice for the multi-family industry a leader with an extensive background in government affairs.

The South Coast Division includes Orange County, Long Beach and Signal Hill and represents owners of more than 100,000 apartment homes.

“The CAA South Coast Board of Directors and I are very pleased to have Tommy serve as our chief staff officer and represent the interests of the apartment industry before the numerous local governmental boards, councils and commissions throughout Orange County,” said Melinda Graham, chairwoman of the South Coast Board of Directors.

“Tommy is no stranger to the nexus between public policy and business, and we are delighted to have a leader who has such a strong, first-hand understanding of local government lead us as we move forward,” added Tom Bannon, chief executive officer for CAA.

Thompson spent more than six years as director of government affairs for the Building Industry Association of Southern California's Riverside County Chapter.  He also has served as vice president of a property preservation company and spent several years working for the California State Legislature.

“Tommy also brings to CAA South Coast a first-hand understanding of local government,” said Graham, referring to his tenure as president of the Nuview Union School District Board of Trustees during a four-year term starting in 2008.

The California Apartment Association (CAA) is the nation's largest statewide trade association representing owners, investors, developers, managers and suppliers of apartment communities.