Major transition announced after decades of service
RE/MAX Holdings, Inc. has announced the upcoming retirement of Ward Morrison, president and CEO of Motto Mortgage and wemlo. After two decades with RE/MAX, Morrison will step down from his role on June 15, 2025, and serve in a consultative capacity through the end of the year, according to a news release.
The company noted that Morrison played a key role in the establishment of Motto Mortgage, a national mortgage brokerage franchise brand in the US. Since the brand’s inception in 2016, he has guided its development and growth, introducing an innovative “Mortgage Brokerage In-A-Box” model that has supported entrepreneurs in building mortgage businesses.
“This decision is deeply personal, and it comes with a range of emotions,” Morrison said. “My time with Motto has been incredibly fulfilling—full of meaningful work, incredible colleagues, and a shared commitment to helping families achieve their dream of homeownership.”
Morrison’s tenure at RE/MAX Holdings spanned multiple leadership roles, including vice president of region operations at RE/MAX, LLC. His retirement coincides with his upcoming wedding, and he has expressed a desire to focus on his personal life and new beginnings.
“This was an incredibly difficult decision, but I know what I want for this next chapter of my life,” he said. “I am so grateful for my time at Motto Mortgage, wemlo, and RE/MAX, and I am proud of what we all have accomplished.”
RE/MAX Holdings has initiated a leadership transition plan to ensure continuity and future growth for Motto Mortgage and wemlo. As part of the transition, Adam Sartin, vice president of franchise growth and development, will oversee the operations of Motto Mortgage and wemlo while the company searches for a successor.
“Ward’s commitment to Motto Mortgage has had a profound impact on the real estate and mortgage industries. He was the perfect leader for the visionary brand that has disrupted the mortgage brokerage landscape,” said Erik Carlson, CEO of RE/MAX Holdings, Inc. “As happy as we are for Ward as he embarks on this new chapter, he will be missed.”
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