NNN REIT Appoints Edward Fritsch as Board Chair, Replacing Steven Cosler
NNN REIT appointed independent director Edward J. Fritsch as board chair on Feb. 18, 2026, succeeding Steven D. Cosler who chaired since May 2021. NNN’s portfolio comprises 3,692 long-term net-leased properties across all 50 states, totaling 39.6 million sq ft with a weighted average lease term of 10.2 years.
1. Leadership Transition
Effective Feb. 18, 2026, the Board of Directors appointed Edward J. Fritsch as chair following the retirement of Steven D. Cosler, who had led the board since May 2021. The appointment underscores a planned succession to maintain governance continuity.
2. Steven Cosler’s Tenure
Steven D. Cosler joined the board in August 2016 and became chair in May 2021, guiding the company through significant market disruption. Management praised his steady leadership and strategic guidance during his tenure.
3. Edward J. Fritsch’s Background
Edward J. Fritsch has served on NNN’s board since February 2012 and was president and CEO of Highwoods Properties until retiring in 2019. He also served on the Nareit Board of Governors, chaired it in 2015–2016, and received Nareit’s Industry Leadership Award in 2023.
4. Portfolio Overview
As of Dec. 31, 2025, NNN REIT owned 3,692 net-leased properties across all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, totaling approximately 39.6 million sq ft. The portfolio has a weighted average remaining lease term of 10.2 years and over 36 consecutive years of annual dividend increases.