Tom Phillips and Rita C. Johnson reminisce over Johnson's tenure at TREND
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REND President and CEO Rita C. Johnson admits it was a hard realization. After 12 years, simply stepping away from the company that she had molded into one of the largest MLSs in the country, and an MLS that is an innovator and leader in real estate technology services, was not going to be easy.
Johnson has more than 25 years of experience in the MLS computer industry. She was recruited to build TREND in 1995 and was the company's first employee. While here, her efforts introduced area real estate agents to the benefits of the Internet by launching a completely Internet-based MLS in 2000; and more recently, Johnson led the successful of an innovative MLS, MLS Blue.
During her busy career she also found time to volunteer with CASA, where she has been active for several years and is a member of the board. CASA supports and promotes court-appointed volunteer advocacy for abused and neglected children.
Johnson's exceptional leadership and vibrant spirit were a large factor in the atmosphere of exploration, discovery and success that exists today within TREND and the Philadelphia real estate marketplace.
Eventually, Johnson knew the day would come. After completing the successful implementation of MLS Blue, the timing seemed right for Johnson to announce her retirement. Tom Phillips, currently Chief Operating Officer of TREND, will take the reigns as TREND's new president and CEO.
"So much of what TREND is today is due to Tom Phillips' influence," Johnson said. "He offers a fresh perspective that is very valuable to TREND. He will maintain the best parts of TREND, but also bring a lot of creativity into moving the company into the future."
Phillips also credits Johnson for much of TREND's success, "Rita's leadership has provided the vision of everything that TREND is today. I am honored to be chosen for this position and am privileged to have worked with Rita for the last seven years."
After completing the successful implementation of MLS Blue, the timing seemed right for Rita Johnson to announce her retirement.
Phillips joined TREND in August 2000 as the vice president of marketing and support. His leadership within TREND was evident and he was promoted to COO in 2006. Previously, he served as the executive vice president for the Burlington County Board of REALTORS® and helped facilitate a merger with the Camden County Board of REALTORS®. He served as the CEO of Burlington-Camden County Association of REALTORS® before leaving that position to come to TREND.
"The quality of our board of directors and their commitment to TREND has created the platform for TREND to succeed," Phillips said. "But I can't do this alone; our staff also has a lot of talented people. Together as a unit, we provide a high-level of service and quality to what we do for members."
When Johnson established TREND, she made certain the foundation was built on providing quality service for members. She also believes that quality of service is what has enabled the company to become so successful.
Johnson knew almost from her initial meeting to become president and CEO that TREND would always hold a special place in her heart.
"I could just tell that there was going to be a great opportunity to build this company," Johnson said. "TREND has become more than I ever imagined. And I will truly miss it."
And TREND will miss her as a colleague and a friend.
To read local industry leaders thoughts about working with Rita Johnson, read News Document #697, "Leaders See Johnson as Innovator."