Known at times as the “Velvet Hammer” for her uncompromising approach, Mo Anderson’s business skills and leadership are uniquely matched by her faith and compassion. She is the heart of Keller Williams, and her personal integrity and unending drive are touchstones that have made KW one of the most successful franchises in real estate history.
Mo got into real estate when her husband Richard suggested a career change after 14 years as a music teacher. It didn’t take long for her talents as a businesswoman to take hold. She established her first real estate office – a Century 21 franchise – in Edmond, Okla., in 1975. Soon after, it was the No. 3 producing office out of 7,500 Century 21 locations in North America. She also served on the Oklahoma Real Estate Commission, including two terms as chairman. In 1986, Mo sold the company to Merrill Lynch Realty, where she served as a district vice president until December 1989. She came on as Keller Williams’ co-owner and CEO in 1995.
Since that time, Mo’s mission has been to help people experience the higher purpose of business – caring, sharing and giving. Led by this mantra, Mo has single-handedly cultivated KW’s value system and culture. Funny enough, in her current role, Mo’s come full circle and is back in the classroom teaching KW training events nationwide.
While she’s been named one of real estate’s 25 Most Influential Thought Leaders by REALTOR® Magazine and is an inducted member of the prestigious Hall of Leaders by the Council of Real Estate Brokerage Managers, Mo’s pride remains in creating a company that is a light in a dark business world. A member of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame (class of 2018), Mo is the author of A Joy-Filled Life: Lessons from a Tenant Farmer’s Daughter Who Became a CEO, and she launched MoAnderson.com, an online mentoring community.
When she’s not in the running for the Mother Teresa of business, you can find Mo supporting her grandkids at the ballpark or catching up with high school and college pals with her husband. She may also be giving back to the community through one of her many charities. Mo splits her time between Austin and Oklahoma City.