A Legacy Leader

Trammell Crow, a Dallas developer who built one of the most successful real estate companies in America, is considered a Legacy Leader. The comments from those whom he touched demonstrate a rich legacy and some simple, yet powerful leadership lessons.

Leadership is based on Character
“To those who were fortunate to know him personally, we will remember his humor and upbeat personality along with his uncompromising honesty, integrity, and character.” Jim Carreker, former chief executive, Trammell Crow Co.

“He was the finest of gentlemen. He started out small and became worldwide in his scope, but he never lost that generous touch.” Wade Nowlin, Nowlin Savings in Fort Worth

Leadership is about People and Caring
“…we are all going to miss him greatly. He cared so much about people, and people gravitated to him.” Bob Scully, Managing Director, CB Richard Ellis, Fort Worth

Leadership is setting the Example
“It was like having the Messiah shake your hand. When you look at all he accomplished, he’s responsible not only for the careers of some super successful real estate people, he transformed the central business districts in large cities all over the country. He’s the man everybody wanted to be like.” Jim Eagle, former Trammell Crow Executive

Leaders treat people like Partners
Crow was known to conduct business on a handshake. He relied on hundreds of young leasing agents, and those that proved themselves talented and hardworking became partners. As he brought in new people, he gave them an equity stake in the business. Sandra Baker, reporter, Fort Worth Star Telegram

There is much being written about leadership, particularly about how it is changing in this technology-driven, globalized business environment. These simple but powerful leadership characteristics and strategies that are a part of Mr. Crow’s legacy – being a person of character, caring about people, setting an example, and treating people like partners – will remain constant across time.