David Townsend Takes the Helm as President of ALTA for 2025-2026
David Townsend Takes the Helm as President of ALTA for 2025-2026
The American Land Title Association (ALTA), the premier trade organization representing the title insurance sector, proudly announces the election of David A. Townsend Esq., NTP, as its president for the 2025-2026 term. Townsend, who has over two decades of extensive experience in the title insurance field, is poised to lead the association during a critical time.
A Proven Industry Leader
Townsend founded the Agents National Title Insurance Company in 2005 and served as its president and CEO until Essent Group Ltd. acquired the company in 2023. Following the acquisition, he transitioned to a new role as senior vice president and agency division manager for the FNF Family of Companies. His career has been marked by a commitment to excellence and innovation, making him a respected figure within the industry.
David has been an integral part of the ALTA Board of Governors since 2018, engaging actively in several ALTA Engagement Groups. Notable among his contributions is his leadership as chair of the Title Industry Political Action Committee from 2016 to 2021. Additionally, Townsend has been recognized for his leadership at the state level in Missouri, where he served on the Missouri Land Title Association (MLTA) Board of Directors from 2012 to 2018, including a term as president.
A Vision for the Future
In his acceptance statement, Townsend expressed his gratitude and responsibility in taking on the role of ALTA president. He highlighted the importance of the title insurance industry in safeguarding property rights and ensuring consumers feel confident in their home investments. Over the next year, he aims to amplify the voices of ALTA members, strengthen the association’s advocacy efforts, and meet the upcoming challenges and opportunities within the industry.
Townsend has set forth a strategic agenda for ALTA during his presidency, focusing on key priorities:
- - Championing the Title Insurance Industry: Elevating the profile and significance of title insurance in the real estate market.
- - Empowering Industry Professionals: Building upon the professional growth and impact of title insurance professionals across the nation.
- - Advancing Industry Knowledge: Fostering a culture of education and preparation for future industry trends and changes.
Support from ALTA Leadership
Chris Morton, CEO of ALTA, commended Townsend on his rare combination of deep expertise and an entrepreneurial spirit. Morton stated that with Townsend’s extensive experience in founding a title underwriting firm and his leadership roles at both state and national levels, he brings a vision necessary to advance and innovate the title insurance industry.
As president, Townsend will lead a distinguished board for the 2025-2026 term that includes:
- - President-elect Craig Haskins, Knight Barry Title Inc.
- - Treasurer Donald A. O'Neill, WFG National Title Insurance Co.
- - Chair of Finance Committee Quinn H. Stufflebeam, Title Financial Corp.
- - Agents Section Chair Lisa M. Steele, Mother Lode Holding Co.
- - Agents Section Rep Deborah S. Bailey Esq., Bailey Helms Legal
- - Underwriters Section Chair Scott T. Chandler CTIS, NTP, Westcor Land Title Insurance Co.
Personal Life
Townsend resides in Columbia, Missouri, with his wife, Kerry, and their children, Blair and Charlie. His commitment to family and community complements his professional journey in an industry dedicated to trust, integrity, and service.
As David Townsend embarks on this new chapter as ALTA's president, the title insurance community looks forward to his leadership in addressing the crucial issues facing the sector and enhancing the value of title insurance in real estate transactions.
Topics General Business）
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