Burge Announces Retirement Plans

At today’s Northwest Iowa Regional Board of REALTORS® (NWIA) Board of Directors meeting, Kelly Burge announced her intention to step down as the organization’s Chief Executive Officer later this year.  Her retirement will be effective December 31, 2022.

Initially hired in 1999 by the Greater Sioux City Board of REALTORS®, Kelly has served the organization for 23 years, with nearly 21 of those in the role of Executive Director/CEO. Under her leadership the board has grown from 200 members to nearly 500 today. During her tenure the organization has implemented many state and national standards, upgraded technology and MLS systems, navigated a merger and name change, and continually evolved to meet the needs of REALTOR® members and the real estate industry.

Kelly has been looked to as a leader for statewide projects, including the development and implementation of a statewide Professional Standards Hearing process. Her quick wit and sharp sense of humor have brought light and laughter to the board office, and her inclusive style of leadership has benefitted the board for many years.

“Kelly has such a deep knowledge of the NWIA organization and the real estate industry,” said NWIA Board President Lisa Croston. “It will certainly be a challenge to fill her shoes.”

Kelly has announced her plans now to provide the NWIA Board of Directors ample time to determine the process they wish to use for hiring a new leader, and to give sufficient time for the board to conduct a thorough candidate search and interview process.  Kelly will continue in her role as CEO through the balance of 2022, and will transition to training and mentoring her successor once one is identified.

Kelly is looking forward to a vibrant retirement lifestyle beginning in 2023. She has plans to travel, go boating, enjoy her children and grandchildren, and sit in her pajamas and leisurely sip coffee by the fireplace every morning, rather than rushing out the door to get to work.

NWIA’s Board of Directors will provide regular updates to the membership as plans for identifying a new organizational leader evolve. Those with immediate questions are encouraged to contact NWIA President Lisa Croston.