OAK BROOK, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Inland American Real Estate Trust, Inc. (Inland American), today announced that Christopher L. Covey has joined the company as senior vice president of transactions, responsible for guiding the company’s acquisition and disposition teams and helping to shape Inland American’s strategy going forward.

Mr. Covey brings 25 years of extensive experience in the retail real estate sector, with a focus on transaction structures, due diligence and negotiations. Prior to joining Inland American, Mr. Covey served as managing director, acquisitions for Kimco Realty Corporation (NYSE: KIM) from 2002 through 2014. Previously, he was a director/investment officer for the central southeast regions for Heller Financial, Inc.

"Chris is a great addition to the Inland American transactions team," said Michael Podboy, executive vice president of transactions for Inland American. "Chris’s ability to identify and analyze retail investment opportunities and transactions will play a critical role as Inland American continues to evolve our retail portfolio."

"This is an exciting time to be joining Inland American. I am looking forward to partnering with Michael and the rest of the transaction team to enhance our portfolio with high-quality retail assets in our target markets to create additional shareholder value and returns,” Mr. Covey said.

Mr. Covey received a bachelors of science degree in both accountancy and finance from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign.

About Inland American Real Estate Trust, Inc.

Inland American Real Estate Trust, Inc. focuses on acquiring and developing a diversified portfolio of commercial real estate located in the United States. The company also invests in joint ventures, development projects, real estate loans and marketable securities. As of March 31, 2014 Inland American owned 281 properties, representing approximately 24 million square feet of retail, industrial and office properties, 8,286 student housing beds and 20,093 hotel rooms. For further information regarding Inland American, please refer to the company website at www.inlandamerican.com.

Inland American Real Estate Trust, Inc.
Dan Lombardo, 630-586-6314
dan.lombardo@inlandgroup.com

Source: Inland American Real Estate Trust, Inc.