As many of you know, Derek Thorvaldson has been a valued team member with the RE/MAX organization for many years – both in the field and with the regional office. His professionalism, dedication, and dry sense of humour along with his highly analytical mind are just a few of the things that we will miss as Derek looks to retirement in June of this year.

Derek has had an extremely accomplished real estate career – to list all his accomplishments would fill the page. But to name a few, in the early 90’s he was the Director and President of the Winnipeg and Manitoba Real Estate Boards and Associations. He initiated the formation of the Winnipeg Real Estate Board’s Technology Committee and was first chairperson, promptly expediting change to the boards MLS and Real Estate News computer systems. During his time, he also served as Chair of Public Relations Committee and initiated the Board Builder Award Program as well as Chair of Buyer Agency Task Force where he obtained Securities Commission Approval for change to Buyer Agency.

His accomplishments don’t stop there. He won Manager of the Year in 1995 overseeing the RE/MAX Professionals franchise in Winnipeg. Joining the regional office in 2001, Derek started as a Management Consultant and moved his way through the ranks to Director. His understanding of the industry, desire to advance change and his deep connection to the RE/MAX brand has helped contribute to regional success, with Western Canada winning Region of the Year in 2009. He has remained a champion for the RE/MAX commercial brand in Canada, growing its presence considerably in the Western Canada region and helping to initiate growth in the Eastern region more recently.

It has been a privilege having Derek as part of our regional team and he has pushed many of you to continue to grow your offices and businesses. While we will miss Derek, we are happy he is moving into this next stage of life.

Here’s to you Derek – thank you for all you have done and may you enjoy this next chapter!