Stewart Zimmerman was the CEO of MFA Financial, a real estate investment trust, from 1997 until his retirement on December 31, 2013. During his tenure, he led the company through significant changes and played a key role in its investment...

Stewart Zimmerman was the CEO of MFA Financial, a real estate investment trust, from 1997 until his retirement on December 31, 2013. During his tenure, he led the company through significant changes and played a key role in its investment strategies in mortgage-backed securities. A notable aspect of his leadership was his total compensation, which peaked at over $3.8 million in 2012, showcasing the performance-based incentives tied to the company's success. After retiring, Zimmerman continued to lend his expertise through a consulting agreement with MFA, where he advised on market and regulatory developments. He has been an influential figure in the financial sector for decades, emphasizing strong alignment with shareholder interests through compensation tied to performance metrics like return on average equity. His time at MFA parallels the growth of the company, reflecting his deep involvement in its operations. Throughout his career, Zimmerman was known for navigating complex financial landscapes and his strategic insights shaped the company's direction.