For the Raleigh Regional Association of Realtors (RRAR), while 2024 is a year of looking back as it celebrates its 100 years of service, its next focus is on the future with new association leadership.
After years of dedicated service, industry veteran Dave Phillips retired as CEO of RRAR. Known for his vision and steady leadership, Dave has been instrumental in guiding Raleigh Realtors through market and industry challenges while maintaining significant growth.
Stepping into the CEO role is Danielle Clermont, a dynamic leader with a wealth of experience, having worked with real estate associations in Florida for nearly 20 years. Both Dave and Danielle took some time to discuss their experiences and what their next chapters are.
Q: Dave, what will you remember most about your time at RRAR?
Dave: I love working in a team environment. The staff team and the collaborative culture we have is the most amazing I have ever seen. I loved working with the entire staff and think they are exceptional people.
RRAR 2024 staff picture with then CEO Dave Phillips. Photo by Jan Phillips
Q: Danielle, what attracted you most about coming to RRAR?
Danielle: It was absolutely the people. A defining factor in the success and longevity of an organization is the strength and depth of its staff and members, and that couldn’t be more accurate here. With a 100-year history, Raleigh Realtors has an incredible legacy and foundation of dedicated and passionate leaders and members, and I’m excited to be a part of it.
Q: Dave, what advice would you give to Danielle as she takes on this role?
Dave: Get out and meet the members. Continually build our relations with the BICs, Realtors, and affiliates.
Q: Danielle, you’ve worked with Realtor Associations for almost 20 years. What are some of the valuable lessons you’ve learned during that time?
- Relationships - never underestimate the power of creating solid relationships- these will help foster collaboration and long-term partnerships.
- Adaptability - real estate is constantly changing and the need to stay flexible and agile is essential.
- Membership Value - continuously creating and demonstrating the association’s value will help ensure retention and growth.
- Leader Development- identifying and growing upcoming leaders are paramount to ensure a strong, successful future.
CEO Danielle Clermont chats with members of the 2024 Board of Directors during her first week on the job. Photo by Kayleigh Bain
Q: Dave, any plans to stay connected with Realtor Associations?
Dave: I'm starting a leadership academy for Association Executives. I will likely attend a few of the national meetings in the future as part of that process.
Q: Danielle, what are your priorities as you step into the CEO role?
Danielle: Externally, to connect with as many of our brokers and agents as I can- asking how we can be more of a resource and how we can better assist them. We are their partners in business.
Internally, to collaborate with our amazing Raleigh Realtors leaders & team to build on new and existing initiatives that will enhance our members’ experience and ultimately their business.
As RRAR transitions into this new chapter in its 101st year, there is great excitement and optimism for what Danielle’s collaborative leadership will bring, while building on the great legacy that Dave and other leaders have created.
