TRAVERSE CITY — The region’s largest real estate association has launched a search for new leadership.
Aspire North Realtors based in Traverse City, which represents 1,050 real estate professionals in 38 counties around Michigan, is working on a succession plan and executive search to replace Kimberly Pontius, who will step down at the end of the year at the end of his current three-year contract. Pontius has led the organization, formerly known as the Traverse Area Association of Realtors (TAAR), since October 2007 and is just the second CEO in the organization’s 47-year history. He replaced Judith Lindenau, who led TAAR from 1978 to 2007.
“I don’t use the word retire, as I’m not ready to retire,” said Pontius, who will turn 70 in September. “I’m telling the board it’s my time to move on to whatever the next chapter is.”
The non-profit organization was first chartered with the National Association of Realtors in July 1946 as Traverse City Realtors, before it changed to TAAR and then took on its current title of Aspire North Realtors in January of 2021. Pontius is also the CEO of the Great Northern Realtors MLS (Multiple Listing Service) LLC, the for-profit arm of the organization that serves the 10-county area. Pontius will also be stepping down from that role when his contract expires.
Pontius said the organization is also in the process of developing a new strategic plan, and the leadership transition will allow the new CEO to be part of the plan’s development.
The Aspire North Board of Directors will also need to determine if its wants to continue having one leader for its non-profit and for-profit operations or split those roles between two individuals, he said.
Pontius and his wife, Karen, live in Long Lake Township. They also own and operate Suttons Bay Trading Co. in downtown Suttons Bay, which will celebrate its 25th year in business in November.