Katie Johnson steps down as NAR’s chief legal officer
Johnson oversaw historic — and very public — legal cases for the organization, including the buyer agent commission lawsuits and sexual harassment litigation.
Katie Johnson is leaving her role as chief legal officer at the National Association of Realtors.
A spokesperson for NAR confirmed that Johnson is departing the organization after 17 years. She headed the legal team for nearly two years, having worked her way up from associate counsel when she was hired in October 2007.
In a written statement, NAR said it was grateful for Johnson's service, which has included overseeing some of the biggest legal issues in the association's history: the buyer agent commission lawsuits, which culminated in a $418 million settlement in March, and sexual harassment lawsuits and related allegations that put a spotlight on NAR's culture.
Who will take over her role? The organization did not immediately announce a replacement for Johnson. Following Johnson's exit, Lesley Muchow, who currently serves as general counsel and vice president of legal affairs and antitrust compliance, is the most senior legal team member. Muchow has been with the organization for more than 14 years.
"As we make this transition, our priority is ensuring business continuity and remaining laser focused on shepherding NAR through this time of significant industry change," the association said in its statement.
A significant industry voice: Johnson has played an important role not only at NAR, but also across the industry, ranking 70th in the 2024 Swanepoel Power 200 list of the most influential people in residential real estate.
She also provided advice and guidance to NAR's 1.5 million members about the practice changes mandated by NAR's settlement, which went into effect Aug. 17.