Heather Ozur, who has a passion for developing and supporting women in real estate, will lead the Women’s Council of REALTORS® nationally as its 2019 president. The position comes to the Keller Williams agent after 17 years of strong industry involvement.
Ozur joined the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Palm Springs/Desert Cities in 2001 and assumed several local leadership roles before serving at the organization’s state and national levels. In 2014, she was elected president for Women’s Council of REALTORS® California. A proponent of homeowner rights, Ozur has been active in leadership at various levels of REALTORS® associations and has served as the 2018 National Association of REALTORS® chair of the Strategic Thinking Advisory Committee.
Heather opens up about the importance of industry involvement and what she hopes to accomplish as president of the Women’s Council of REALTORS®.
You’ve been with the Women’s Council of REALTORS® since 2001. What has kept you engaged and passionate about deepening your involvement with the group?
The Women’s Council of REALTORS® is dedicated to elevating and empowering women to step up and get involved in their business, their community, and their industry. As an extension, women are empowered to become leaders in whatever area they choose. For many – myself included – the organization has been a gateway to industry involvement. Seeing the spark of leadership in others impassioned me to get more and more involved.
Do you still see a disparity within the real estate profession in terms of helping women succeed?
Yes. The Women’s Council was created 80 years ago at a time when women couldn’t write contracts, and they were getting a bottle of wine if they sold something. Things have improved, but there is still work to be
One of the hashtags we use is #leadersmadehere. We are a network of successful REALTORS®, advancing women as business leaders in the industry and in the communities we serve. It’s great to have this accessible and diverse network that links members to the tools and training they need while supporting their business and personal goals.
How has the organization helped you grow as a leader? How do you hope to develop in your new role as national president?
Before the Women’s Council of REALTORS®, I was terrified of public speaking. Today, I can share my story in front of a crowd without hesitation. Growing as a communicator has been huge for me. My strategic planning skills have developed immensely as well. I’ve learned how to pair vision with strategy; it’s a skill that has helped lead me here.
We are celebrating our 80th anniversary this year, and we’re planning to be around for decades to come. One of the Women’s Council phrases is “the task is to ask.” It’s always about looking back and being able to reach and pull new leaders forward – it’s about helping other people become the leaders they never knew they were. Having the ability to do that and help other leaders grow is an amazing opportunity of fulfillment.
How has Keller Williams supported you throughout your journey as a leader?
I’ve really appreciated Keller Williams’ focus on industry engagement over the past few years. The company has the KW Industry Leaders Community, which I am pleased to be a part of. The group is composed of associates who are currently serving in leadership roles in their local, state, and/or national associations, MLS boards, and specialty and diversity groups. This is proof that KW is paying attention to what we do to give back to the industry. It’s a collaborative effort.
You’ve been with the Women’s Council of REALTORS® since 2001. What has kept you engaged and passionate about deepening your involvement with the group?