Real estate giant shakes up executive team
First American Financial Corporation, a provider of title, settlement and risk solutions for real estate transactions, has appointed Mark E. Seaton as its new chief executive officer, following the departure of CEO Ken DeGiorgio. The company also announced the promotion of Matt F. Wajner to chief financial officer.
Seaton has served as CFO since 2013 and has held several leadership roles since joining the company in 2006. In his previous capacity, he oversaw all financial activities, First American Trust — the company’s federally chartered bank — and its technology group. Seaton holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Stanford University and an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College.
“We are looking forward to our next chapter under the strong leadership of Mark Seaton,” said Dennis J. Gilmore, chairman of the board, who will transition to executive chairman. “No one is more ready to be our CEO than Mark, who has played a leading role in our most critical strategic initiatives.”
In his remarks, Seaton acknowledged the company’s legacy and expressed confidence in its direction. “We have celebrated many proud accomplishments during our 136-year history, but given our extraordinary people and unique competitive advantages, I firmly believe our best days are yet to come,” he said.
Wajner, who has been with First American since 2009, succeeds Seaton as CFO. He most recently served as treasurer and has held roles including chief accounting officer and controller. Prior to joining First American, Wajner worked at JPMorgan Chase & Co. and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business economics from UCLA.
First American Financial Corporation reported $6.1 billion in total revenue in 2024 and has been recognized by Fortune and Great Place to Work as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in 2025.
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