Leadership changes often shape the future of an organization, especially when an experienced insider takes the top role. Canopy MLS has announced that Steve Byrd will become its next Chief Executive Officer, bringing nearly three decades of experience with the organization. The appointment marks an important step as Canopy MLS prepares for its next phase of growth, innovation, and operational expansion while introducing a new leadership structure.
Steve Byrd to Take Over as CEO
Steve Byrd will officially become CEO of Canopy MLS on August 1, 2026. He currently serves as the organization’s Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, where he has led technology initiatives and helped build the systems that support one of the largest multiple listing services in the United States.
Byrd joined Canopy MLS in 1997 and has spent almost 30 years developing and managing the organization’s technology infrastructure. During his tenure, he has overseen software development, network operations, cybersecurity, and digital platforms that support thousands of real estate professionals across multiple markets.
His long association with the organization and deep understanding of its technology and operations made him a natural choice for the leadership position.
Leadership Transition Underway
Steve Byrd succeeds Anne Marie DeCatsye, who plans to retire at the end of 2026 after leading both Canopy MLS and the Canopy Realtor Association for more than 25 years.
As part of the transition, Byrd will report to DeCatsye through the remainder of 2026. Beginning in January 2027, a new operations and management agreement will take effect, establishing separate executive leadership for Canopy MLS and the Canopy Realtor Association.
The Canopy Realtor Association has already started a national search for its own Chief Executive Officer, while Byrd will continue leading Canopy MLS.
Focus on Growth and Innovation
As CEO, Byrd will oversee the organization’s strategic direction, daily operations, financial performance, and long-term business growth. He will also lead efforts to expand products and services while strengthening Canopy MLS’s position as a national player in MLS innovation.
His appointment reflects the organization’s continued investment in technology and digital solutions designed to improve services for brokers, agents, and real estate professionals.
Canopy MLS is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, and serves more than 22,000 subscribers. It is one of the largest multiple listing services in the country and provides property listing data and technology solutions that support residential real estate transactions.
Continuing Industry Collaboration
In addition to leading Canopy MLS, Byrd will continue working with the Southeast MLS Alliance, a collaboration that includes Canopy MLS, Charleston Trident Regional MLS, Georgia MLS, Realtracs, and realMLS.
The alliance enables participating MLS organizations to expand data access and improve services for brokers and agents across multiple markets while maintaining their local operations.
Extensive Industry Experience
Byrd brings significant industry leadership experience to his new role. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Council of MLS and the Real Estate Standards Organization (RESO). He also serves on the National Association of Realtors MLS Standards Workgroup and has contributed to advisory groups for Cotality, Realtor.com, and ShowingTime.
His experience in both technology leadership and industry standards positions him to guide Canopy MLS through the evolving real estate technology landscape.
Looking Ahead
Steve Byrd’s appointment represents a carefully planned leadership transition rather than a sudden change. With decades of experience inside the organization, he is expected to build on Canopy MLS’s technology-driven foundation while supporting its long-term strategic goals.
As the organization adopts its new leadership structure in 2027, Canopy MLS aims to strengthen innovation, expand services for its subscribers, and continue delivering reliable technology solutions to the real estate industry.
