Elfant Wissahickon Realtors named its newest president, managing partner Paul Walsh, to replace firm co-founder president Bob Elfant. Asher Kahn, sales manager of the Rittenhouse Square office, has also been named partner.

Walsh, a Germantown native, joined Elfant Wissahickon EWR 20 years ago, became a partner in 2004 and was made managing partner of the organization in 2007. Walsh was instrumental in the growth of EWR from about 45 agents to nearly 100 agents.

“He has provided unparalleled leadership, is universally respected by his peers, and beloved by our agents and staff. There was no question in the owner’s minds that he represent our company as president,” Elfant said.

Although Elfant will remain a founding partner, he stepped down from the presidency in order to spend more time with his family.

EWR moved its headquarters to Chestnut Hill in 2010. Through Walsh’s efforts, the company has become part of the fabric of the Avenue.

Walsh most recently served as president of the Chestnut Hill Business Association and is currently vice president of the Chestnut Hill Business Improvement District.

“I have large shoes to fill in following Bob,” Walsh said. “I am confident that our company, with our amazing agents and staff, will continue to grow as one of the top real estate firms in the country.

Asher Kahn, formerly the sales manager of the Rittenhouse Square office, has been credited with growing the firm’s presence in center city and is currently working to expand their services into New Jersey. He joins Louise D’Alessandro, Larry DiFranco, Bob Elfant and Paul Walsh as an EWR partner.

“Asher brings 15 years of varied real estate experience and has had a significant impact on penetration of the center city marketplace,” Elfant said. “He provides wonderful support and training to our agents, companywide. I am thrilled to have Asher on board.

“It is very special to love what you do and also love the people you are surrounded with, and I am truly grateful to have that at Elfant Wissahickon,” Kahn said.