Stellar MLS Welcomes New Leadership as CEO Merri Jo Cowen Steps Down

Leadership Transition at Stellar MLS

The real estate industry is witnessing a significant change as Merri Jo Cowen, the long-serving CEO of Stellar MLS, prepares to step down from her role in the first quarter of 2026. Cowen has been an iconic figure in the real estate sector, leading the company for more than 15 years and transforming it into the largest multiple listing service (MLS) in Florida and Puerto Rico. Alongside her departure, Shayne Fairley, the current Chief Operations Officer (COO), has been appointed as her successor.

Cowen has gained recognition for her visionary leadership, overseeing a period of remarkable growth and modernization for Stellar MLS since her ascension to CEO in 2008. Under her guidance, the organization not only expanded its customer base significantly but also solidified its influence in both national and international real estate markets. The transformation journey included the rebranding of the company in 2019, which played a crucial role in increasing its visibility and enhancing its value in a rapidly evolving industry.

In a heartfelt statement, Cowen expressed her pride in Stellar MLS and reflected upon her journey, stating, "Serving as CEO of Stellar MLS has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I'm incredibly proud of what we have built—an MLS that delivers value, innovation, and integrity to real estate professionals and the consumers they serve."

Moving forward, Cowen holds full confidence in Fairley, stating, "I truly cannot imagine leaving what we've built in better hands. Shayne knows Stellar MLS inside and out, and I have complete trust in his leadership and absolute confidence that he'll take this organization to the next level."

Shayne Fairley has been with Stellar MLS since 2005, rising through various roles and departments. His extensive experience in the company includes training both customers and staff, streamlining compliance processes, and advancing data services. After being appointed COO in 2017, he has led initiatives focusing on customer satisfaction and strategic growth.

Reflecting on his mentorship under Cowen, Fairley said, "I've had the privilege of working closely with Merri Jo for nearly 20 years and learned a tremendous amount by watching how she leads, both strategically and personally. She leads with vision and heart, and that blend of high-level leadership and genuine care is part of what makes Stellar successful and is something I intend to carry forward."

The Transition Ahead

As the leadership change approaches, Cowen and Fairley are committed to ensuring a seamless transition. The process will unfold over the next several months, with both leaders collaborating on strategic initiatives that are crucial for the growth of the MLS. The official transition, scheduled for Q1 2026, is set up to maintain continuity and support for all stakeholders involved.

After her tenure as CEO, Cowen will remain with Stellar MLS in a strategic advisory capacity while also leading Universal Consulting Opportunities (UCO), the company's subsidiary established in 2024. UCO provides tailored solutions and expertise to MLS practices worldwide, fostering global collaboration and trust across the real estate sector.

"Our priorities remain the same—delivering exceptional value to our customers, championing innovation, and helping shape the future of the real estate industry both at home and around the world," commented Fairley, summarizing his vision.

About Stellar MLS

Stellar MLS stands as one of the most influential multiple listing services across the United States, boasting a vast network with over 84,000 customers. Serving real estate agents and brokers in central and southwest Florida and Puerto Rico, the service offers an extensive range of products aimed at enhancing clients' business operations and maximizing the opportunities for real estate professionals. Stellar MLS remains dedicated to the pursuit of clarity, stability, and support in an ever-changing marketplace, ensuring that all individuals seeking homeownership can achieve their dreams effectively.

As the transition nears, the industry watches keenly to see how the future unfolds under Fairley’s stewardship and the enduring influence of Cowen’s legacy.