Tom Griffin ERA Board President
As Walter Tobin retires from his role as CEO of ERA, we pause to reflect on a remarkable decade of vision, leadership and unwavering dedication.
Walter began his career at ERA in September 2015, prior to the first ERA conference in Austin, and immediately began work on that conference. Walter’s first conference ended up hosting 200 people, which had been the largest in recent history. Dozens of first-timers attended, due to Walter’s enthusiasm. With his incredible work ethic and remarkable energy, Walter and the hardworking ERA staff began working on increasing sponsorship and attendees. He announced during that Conference that ERA would begin hosting the Conference on an annual basis and it would remain in Austin. (Prior to that, the annual conference was held every other year in Chicago.)
Driving membership growth and engagement
One of Walter’s most significant achievements has been revitalizing the ERA membership base. Recognizing that the true strength of any association lies in its members, Walter championed programs and initiatives designed to engage, support and grow this community. Over his tenure, ERA membership not only rebounded but reached unprecedented levels. His focus on value-driven benefits, professional development and networking opportunities helped members feel connected and empowered.
Building a legacy of innovation
Walter’s leadership was never about simply solving today’s problems — it was about building for the future. Under his guidance, ERA embraced innovation, launching new programs and embracing technologies like SearchLink.ai that modernized our operations and enhanced the member experience. His forward-thinking approach ensured that ERA stayed relevant and positioned for continued success in an ever-changing industry landscape.
A legacy of service and dedication
Walter’s tenure was defined not only by measurable successes but also by his deep personal commitment to ERA and its mission. He has been a tireless advocate for our members, a trusted partner to our board and an inspiring leader to our staff. Walter’s integrity, compassion and vision have set a standard for leadership that will inspire us for years to come.
As we bid farewell to Walter in his role as CEO, we extend our deepest gratitude for his decade of extraordinary service. His legacy is one of transformation — of taking ERA from a place of challenge to one of prosperity and promise. While he may be stepping into retirement, the impact of his leadership will continue to shape our association for many years to come.
On behalf of the entire ERA community, thank you, Walter, for your dedication, leadership and belief in what this association can achieve. We wish you joy and fulfillment in the next chapter of your life.
> The GOAT
Tom Griffin ERA Board President
As Walter Tobin retires from his role as CEO of ERA, we pause to reflect on a remarkable decade of vision, leadership and unwavering dedication.
Walter began his career at ERA in September 2015, prior to the first ERA conference in Austin, and immediately began work on that conference. Walter’s first conference ended up hosting 200 people, which had been the largest in recent history. Dozens of first-timers attended, due to Walter’s enthusiasm. With his incredible work ethic and remarkable energy, Walter and the hardworking ERA staff began working on increasing sponsorship and attendees. He announced during that Conference that ERA would begin hosting the Conference on an annual basis and it would remain in Austin. (Prior to that, the annual conference was held every other year in Chicago.)
Driving membership growth and engagement
One of Walter’s most significant achievements has been revitalizing the ERA membership base. Recognizing that the true strength of any association lies in its members, Walter championed programs and initiatives designed to engage, support and grow this community. Over his tenure, ERA membership not only rebounded but reached unprecedented levels. His focus on value-driven benefits, professional development and networking opportunities helped members feel connected and empowered.
Building a legacy of innovation
Walter’s leadership was never about simply solving today’s problems — it was about building for the future. Under his guidance, ERA embraced innovation, launching new programs and embracing technologies like SearchLink.ai that modernized our operations and enhanced the member experience. His forward-thinking approach ensured that ERA stayed relevant and positioned for continued success in an ever-changing industry landscape.
A legacy of service and dedication
Walter’s tenure was defined not only by measurable successes but also by his deep personal commitment to ERA and its mission. He has been a tireless advocate for our members, a trusted partner to our board and an inspiring leader to our staff. Walter’s integrity, compassion and vision have set a standard for leadership that will inspire us for years to come.
As we bid farewell to Walter in his role as CEO, we extend our deepest gratitude for his decade of extraordinary service. His legacy is one of transformation — of taking ERA from a place of challenge to one of prosperity and promise. While he may be stepping into retirement, the impact of his leadership will continue to shape our association for many years to come.
On behalf of the entire ERA community, thank you, Walter, for your dedication, leadership and belief in what this association can achieve. We wish you joy and fulfillment in the next chapter of your life.