Where Real Estate Gets Its Dirt

Merri Jo Cowen, CEO of Stellar MLS, to step down from role in early 2026

Stellar MLS CEO Merri Jo Cowen to Step Down After Transformative Tenure; Longtime COO Named as Successor

“Widely recognized as a thought leader and trailblazer in the real estate industry, Cowen has led Stellar MLS since 2008, guiding it through a period of transformational growth and modernization. Under her leadership, the organization expanded its customer base to become the largest MLS in Florida and Puerto Rico.”

Shayne Fairley, who has been named Merri Jo’s successor, has some big shoes to fill, but I’m sure he’ll do a great job.

It’s impossible to capture just how much Merri Jo has contributed to this industry, so I’ll save that for another post as we get closer to her departure. But I will say this: a lot of people owe their careers to Merri Jo, and the industry is a better place because of her.

James Reynolds to retire

Congratulations on Retirement, James Reynolds

“As Mr. Fisher’s first hire following NAR’s acquisition in 2003, James recruited our initial 100 Association customers in just our first 36 months of operations, laying the foundation for our growth as a leading technology company, serving over 400 Associations and over 400,000 REALTORS®.”

Legendary. One of the good guys. It’s hard to say if anyone ever “retires” from this business (that’s why we call it Hotel California) but maybe James will be one of the lucky ones that escape the gravity pull. Happy Trails James!

Tom Hurdelbrink, president and CEO of NWMLS, to retire at end of 2023. Justin Haag named successor


NORTHWEST MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE PRESIDENT & CEO ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

“The opportunity to be the president and CEO of NWMLS is the highlight of my professional career,” Hurdelbrink said. “We have seen quite a lot of industry changes in the past 15 years, and the organization has come through it all stronger and even more committed to be a leading resource for our members. It has been my honor to work with outstanding staff, board members and member firms to elevate the profession and ultimately better serve consumers.”

-NWMLS

An amazing 15 years at the helm. NWMLS has been ahead of many of the changes going on in the industry and that’s no coincidence. Tom has never been one to grab the spotlight but always working on behalf of his members and the industry at large. His humble leadership will be missed. Congrats Tom, and happy trails.

MRED announces Lynn Strantz’s retirement.

Midwest Real Estate Data VP of Product Management to Retire

“MLSs have gone through an amazing transition from being non-technical entities to extremely high-tech platforms and Lynn has been a crucial part of making that happen.” said MRED Chief Operating Officer Jeff Lasky. “It wouldn’t be a stretch to call her one of the founders of the modern MLS.”

Agreed. We are going to miss you Lynn.

Industry vet, Dottie Shanley retires

Art Carter, CEO of CRMLS…

““I offer my best wishes to industry veteran Dottie Shanley as she enters retirement. Dottie served the MLS/AOR industry as a customer care specialist for 27 years, beginning her career as a bookkeeper with
Buena Park AOR. After Buena Park AOR merged with North Orange County and Pacific West, Dottie
began to get involved with other avenues of the industry. She learned many departments, including the
membership aspect of the industry, before moving into the MLS department. In 2000 Dottie made a
move to SoCal MLS, where she started on the Customer Care team. In 2011, SoCal merged with CRMLS,
and today she hangs up her headset from CRMLS as one of the most fearless and dedicated customer
service representatives around. Dottie is looking forward to retirement and plans to spend more time on
her hobbies, including playing bingo. Congratulations, and thanks for many years of outstanding
service!”

I’m a sucker for these announcements. Anyone devoting as much time to this business deserves recognition, and Dottie has seen it all!

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