Realtor.ca has officially become a standalone, wholly-owned subsidiary of the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), and with that comes the need for new leadership.

On Feb. 27, Interim CEO Patrick Pichette announced the recruitment process for a new board of directors is underway, with The Leadership Agency spearheading the search.

Realtor.ca’s transition to standalone subsidiary

Until recently, Realtor.ca operated as a not-for-profit, but with growing competition and rising costs, CREA says it saw a need to rethink its approach. By transitioning to a for-profit model, it believes the platform can unlock new revenue streams and reduce its reliance on member dues, reinvesting profits back into the platform.

New leadership will be part of a “significant strategic move after two years”

According to the recruitment plan, the new board will be tasked with driving Realtor.ca’s long-term growth and financial independence; members will need expertise in business strategy, sales, technology and industry transformation

The process will “differentiate skills needed for immediate transition vs. long-term growth” while emphasizing “leadership coaching and a skills-based selection.” Additionally, the board will bring “diverse industry insights” and will be part of “a significant strategic move after two years, aimed at unlocking revenue streams to better the platform for members and consumers.” 

Recruitment timeline

The recruitment process includes several key milestones—with final candidates being approved by CREA’s board on Apr. 28, and the new board of directors officially being onboarded in May.

REM Editorial Team