Agency Executive Vice President George Houghton has announced he will be retiring at the beginning of April 2017 after a 35-year association with Stewart, 19 as a Stewart employee.
Prior to joining Stewart, Houghton was the president and majority owner of Fort Bend Title Co. and its subsidiary, Citizens Title Co. In 1998 he joined Stewart as the senior vice president for Stewart Title of Houston. From there he quickly moved in to regional and then national leader agency district manager for Stewart Title Guaranty Co.
During his tenure with Stewart, he has been a key member of the leadership team, according to the company’s announcement. He was instrumental in the turnaround of agency. He has built lasting relationships with key agencies and has been a valued member and contributor to American Land and Title Association and the Texas Land Title Association.
“George’s contributions to Stewart through his leadership in policy services as well as agency operations has been integral to our overall success. We’ll surely miss him,” CEO Matt Morris said in the release.
In addition to his sales and operations leadership in agency Houghton served as a director for several profit and non-profit boards. They include, amongst others, Stewart Title Insurance Co., Stewart Vacation Ownership Title Agency, Houston Baptist University – College of Business Advisory Board, and T.W. Davis YMCA.
When asked what he plans to do in retirement, Houghton said in the announcement he wants to pursue a master’s in Biblical Studies, improve his golf game and travel. He also is looking forward to spending more time with his family, including his two granddaughters.
“His leadership and wise counsel have been vital to improving Agency Operations and will be missed,” Group President Pat Beall said. “We congratulate George and wish him equal success as he transitions to retirement.”