By Jeremy Davis
At the end of October, the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board (WRREB) celebrated the remarkable leadership of Marina R. James, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), who announced her decision to step away from her role effective October 31, 2025, following nearly a decade of transformative leadership.
Since joining WRREB as CEO in 2016, James has guided the organization through a period of growth, modernization, and strengthened industry and community partnerships. Her vision has elevated WRREB’s role as a trusted voice in Manitoba’s real estate sector, advancing Member services, data analytics, and professional standards across the region.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, we extend our deepest gratitude to Marina for her outstanding service,” said Michael Froese, 2025–2026 President of the Board of Directors. “Her strategic vision, professionalism, and collaborative approach have left a lasting legacy. Marina’s leadership has built the foundation on which WRREB will continue to thrive.”
James’ leadership extended beyond WRREB, including service as Chair of the Manitoba Hydro Electric Board and Vice Chair of the Inland Port Special Planning Authority, where she championed community growth and development within Manitoba’s real estate and infrastructure sectors.
In addition to her prominent work in Manitoba, James has been a reputable force on the national stage. James chaired the 2023 national task force charged with making recommendations to the Canadian Real Estate Association’s (CREA) Board of Directors on a sustainable path forward for the future of REALTOR.ca as a new for-profit subsidiary. She was also recognized with the CREA’s 2024 Association Executives Network (AEN) Award of Excellence, a national distinction to honour the outstanding dedication and exemplary service to real estate development and growth.
Reflecting on her tenure, James shared: “It has been an honour to serve as CEO of the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board and to work alongside such a talented and passionate team, dedicated Board of Directors, and an engaged membership. Together, we have navigated change and strengthened our impact as an organization focused on economic development, removing barriers to home ownership, and addressing impediments to the growth of housing and real estate in Manitoba. I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished and grateful for the trust placed in me during our time together.”
As part of a planned and thoughtful succession process, the WRREB Board of Directors has appointed Crystal Hollas, Senior Vice President and Chief Privacy Officer, as the organization’s next CEO, effective November 3, 2025. Hollas worked closely with James for nearly a decade, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition.
“We are confident in Crystal’s ability to lead WRREB into its next exciting chapter,” added Froese. “Her experience, integrity, and dedication to the REALTOR® community make her the ideal successor to carry forward the Board’s mission.”
Hollas brings over 19 years of experience with WRREB, a law degree, deep institutional knowledge of the Board’s operations, and Member relations. She has experience working closely with Brokers, on Member-to-Member professional standards hearings and arbitrations, resolving conflicts, instructing re-licensing and real estate education courses, and championing directions with the Manitoba Securities Commission.
For nearly the last decade, Hollas worked closely with James to gain an understanding of the organization’s finances and departmental operating budgets which will elevate her skills toward ensuring sound fiscal and human resource management. Her commitment to professionalism and REALTOR® advocacy ensures continuity in the WRREB’s strategic direction.
“It is a privilege to serve the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board and build upon its enduring reputation for professionalism and integrity,” said Crystal Hollas, CEO of the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board. “As we look to the future, I remain committed to supporting our Members, fostering collaboration, and ensuring the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board’s continued leadership in advancing the interests of real estate in our market region.”
WRREB remains steadfast in its commitment to empower REALTORS® through advocacy, professional development, education, technology, and real estate marketing innovation via the MLS® while continuing to serve the public with integrity and excellence.
Jeremy Davis is the Winnipeg Regional Real Estate Board’s Director of External Relations & Market Intelligence.