FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact Mike Nemeth, communications director
(916) 449-6426, mnemeth@caanet.org

IRVINE — The California Apartment Association has expanded its government advocacy team in Southern California with the hiring of public policy veteran Victor Cao.

Cao, who began Monday as CAA’s vice president of public affairs for Orange County, replaces Matthew Buck, who is now overseeing the association’s broadened public affairs work in Los Angeles County.

Cao was previously chief of staff for Lisa Bartlett, chairwoman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors and representative for the Fifth District. In this position, Cao led several public policy initiatives throughout Orange County related to housing, workforce development, economic development, regulatory reform, homelessness and transportation.

He also has led government affairs and operated the political action committee for the Building Industry Association of Orange County. He has previous experience working for members of Congress in their Washington, D.C., offices and campaigns. Cao received a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of California, Irvine.

“I’m excited to be coming at a time when the association is in a position of strength,” Cao said, referring to CAA’s decisive 20-point victory over Proposition 10. “I look forward to being a resource to local and state officials in Orange County and representing the state’s most respected voice for the rental housing industry.”

Tom Bannon, chief executive officer for CAA, said the industry can expect top-notch representation from Cao, who will advocate for their interests on both local and statewide issues.

“One can only look to Victor’s wealth of experience in the building industry and county government as a testament to his ability to lead our public affairs efforts in Orange County,” Bannon said. “Orange County is one of the highest priorities for us in the state, and we have the resources and talent in place to meet the challenges ahead.”

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The California Apartment Association is the nation’s largest statewide trade group representing owners, investors, developers, managers and suppliers of apartment communities. CAA recognizes its ethical duties to the communities its members serve and insist on upholding the utmost integrity in the multifamily housing field. CAA’s Code of Ethics guides the association’s dealings with all people, and we encourage all rental housing professionals to abide by it.