CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Gov. Jim Justice has announced that he has appointed John McHugh to serve as Executive Director of the West Virginia Real Estate Division. The appointment was effective Jan 21, 2019.

“John brings a wealth of knowledge and professional background to this job and I’m sure he will work diligently to make sure the operation of the Real Estate Division becomes as efficient and effective as possible,” Gov. Justice said.

With extensive experience in real estate, McHugh previously served as General Counsel for the West Virginia Military Authority, and Chief of the Legal Section for Division of Highways, Right of Way Division. Before that, he served as an attorney in private practice for many years.

McHugh is a graduate of the WVU College of Law and the United States Army War College, where he earned a master’s degree in strategic studies.

In 2017, McHugh retired from the West Virginia Army National Guard, after more than 30 years of military service, having attained the rank of Colonel.

While in the National Guard, he served as Battalion Commander for the 771st Battalion Troop Command, Brigade Commander for 77th Brigade Troop Command, and State Army Aviation Officer.

McHugh is a veteran of Desert Storm, where he was awarded the Air Medal for meritorious service as a Medevac helicopter pilot.