KW’s new CMO to focus on ‘what makes our agents unforgettable’ 

Editor's note: As an industry with millions of agents and over 100,000 brokerage companies, new leaders rise to the top every day. Here we highlight executives and other notable leaders who've recently taken on, or stepped away from, roles that influence the residential real estate landscape.

Keller Williams has hired a chief marketing officer to — in the words of CEO Chris Czarnecki —  "elevate our competitive position and the brands of our agents and franchisees."

Sandra Howard, a veteran of top brands including AT&T and Southwest, was introduced to attendees of the KW Mega Agent Camp on Aug. 13. Her role at the industry's largest franchise company will be to elevate the brand and amplify each agent's "personal branding superpowers."

She told Real Estate News that "we are moving from making Keller Williams known to making our agents the obvious choice by telling stories only we can tell."

"People seek trust and connection," added Howard, who has won some of the industry's top honors, including a Gold Cannes Lion. "Our marketing will showcase what's uniquely KW and what makes our agents unforgettable."

Howard most recently served as the principal of brand strategy at LERMA/, a Dallas-based full-service advertising agency. What attracted her to KW?

"It's a marketer's dream," she said. "Keller Williams already has what most brands spend years chasing: a powerful culture, loyal community and strong values. My role is to amplify what's already here and make it impossible to ignore."

KW spokesperson Darryl Frost said the company expects Howard to "help lead us into the most exciting growth chapter in our history."

WFG National Title names SVP of national development

Longtime industry leader Lisa Tyler has been tapped as senior vice president of national development for WFG National Title. With more than 35 years in the title business — most recently as national escrow administrator for Fidelity National Financial — Tyler is known for her operational expertise, leadership and commitment to fraud prevention.

In her new role, she'll be based in Irvine, California, and will travel nationwide to connect with WFG teams, agents and customers, supporting the company's growth. Tyler also leads the Beverly Carter Foundation, which is focused on the safety of real estate professionals.

"After an incredible 35 years with Fidelity, I was ready for a new chapter where I could continue making a meaningful impact in our industry," Tyler said. "I chose WFG because of its forward- thinking leadership, strong culture, and unwavering commitment to doing what's right for customers, partners, and team members."

Chairman and Founder Patrick Stone called her "an invaluable addition," citing her passion for protecting consumers and enhancing industry practices.