What drew you to the CEO position at RRC?
I’ve known RRC for more than 20 years, and it’s been an organization that has crossed my path throughout my career. It’s an honor to lead this organization after observing it from the sidelines for so many years. In my capacity at NAR Global, no matter where we traveled, countries would always request courses leading to the CRS Designation. It truly has a reputation as the gold standard in residential real estate, and the brand power has always been there. In my most recent position at the Women’s Council, each time we did member surveys, RRC was the top crossover organization. So the memberships are similar, and I’ve always studied how RRC does things. It’s an outstanding organization with great potential, world-class education, and enthusiastic and passionate members. Those are just some of the reasons I’ve been drawn to the organization for more than 20 years throughout my career.
What about the real estate industry do you like the most?
I used to sell barcoding machinery that placed expiration dates on product packaging in factory lines. As much as I tried, I found it difficult to get interested. The real estate industry, however, is so different. No matter where you go in the world, real estate is the major economic driver and is an industry that is on everyone’s minds. From entertainment (TV shows) to fulfilling dreams, it’s an industry that everyone relates to. The industry is interesting, and the learning never ends.
What inspires you?
The members! One of the reasons I’ve remained in the real estate association world for so long is the members’ passion, time and energy that they dedicate to organized real estate. It fuels my energy to work collaboratively to get things done and be good stewards of an association. REALTORS® are professionals who are down-to-earth people, probably because every day in their work they cross paths with people from all walks of life. As professionals, they have a front-row seat to it all and have an understanding of what’s happening in the real world.
What is the best leadership advice you’ve received?
The 1990 national president of NAR, Norm Flynn, was a great mentor and friend and taught me everything I’ve known in my leadership journey. He was a believer in the concept and mantra of “servant leadership.” He felt that associations were unique businesses because staff’s job in leading was not just be the “sage on the stage” but also be the “guide on the side,” meaning you have to work in partnership with volunteer leadership to achieve success. I observed his collaborative style and approach throughout the years. Sadly, he passed away in 2021, but knowing him and having his leadership advice and mentorship over so many years was a true gift. He was never too busy to take a call or help me solve a problem.
What is your hope for the future of the Council?
Our vision is to be the premier business organization for REALTORS® and international real estate professionals. This means, if we are the top 3% of agents in the U.S., we should be around 48,000 designees—and the membership and the value it offers should make RRC the go-to organization for their business. What we offer should provide valued differentiation.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to do long runs in the forest preserve, and if there isn’t snow on the ground, I do it throughout the year. It’s great exercise and clears the mind. Family travels are always a great way to connect and spend time. With our two daughters in college, any time we spend together as a family is precious. At home, my wife and I are new empty nesters, which means our spoiled-rotten Goldendoodle, Chloe, gets all of the attention while we attempt to find a good TV series to binge watch. (Suggestions are always welcome.)
