Two Real Estate Leaders Just Made a List That Predicts Industry Shifts

Lucía Torres · 2026-07-27

Indispensable (adjective): Absolutely necessary, essential; is indispensable to the team. The Agency is thrilled to announce that SVP of Franchise Operations, Tara Gettles, and EVP of Brokerage Operations and Regional Manager of Northern California, Jeff Samuels have been named among honorees in the Los Angeles Business Journal's (LABJ) first-ever The Indispensables 2026. This honor celebrates exceptional leaders who drive strategy, build teams, solve problems, foster innovation, and deliver results. ### What Makes This Recognition Different According to LABJ, The Indispensables recognizes professionals who make success possible every day. While the LA500 celebrates executives leading companies, the LABJ Indispensables honors trusted leaders, innovators, problem-solvers, and operators whose expertise drives performance, strengthens culture, and helps organizations thrive. It's a shift in focus from titles to impact. ### Tara Gettles: A Decade of Franchise Growth Tara Gettles came on board with The Agency in 2020 as Senior Vice President of Franchise Operations, bringing over three decades of experience as an entrepreneur and real estate franchise owner. She quickly proved herself a genuine leader in business development and strategic growth. This past year, Tara's focus has centered on supporting The Agency's Global Partners, with particular attention to growth, profitability, and an outstanding overall experience. In 2026 alone, Tara and the Franchise Operations team launched 18 global offices and finalized 10 franchise agreements across four countries. That's a staggering pace—nearly one new office every three weeks. ### Jeff Samuels: Leading with Warmth and Strategy Jeff Samuels, a dedicated and seasoned industry leader, brings more than 20 years of real estate experience to The Agency in his role as EVP of Brokerage Operations and Regional Manager of Northern California. Partnering with The Agency's executive team, Jeff has grown the firm's presence across the region while guiding a team of skilled agents dedicated to delivering personalized, concierge-level client service. A dynamic, strategic leader, Jeff pairs polished professionalism with genuine warmth, infusing his leadership approach with humor and wit. It's rare to find someone who can balance high-stakes operations with a light touch, but Jeff makes it look easy. ### What This Means for the Industry This recognition isn't just about two individuals—it signals a broader trend. The real estate industry is increasingly valuing the people who make things run smoothly behind the scenes. Not just the top brokers, but the operators, the franchise builders, and the regional leaders who keep everything on track. For professionals in the field, it's a reminder that your contributions matter, even if they don't always make headlines. ### A Quick Look at Their Impact - Tara Gettles: Led the launch of 18 global offices and finalized 10 franchise agreements across four countries in 2026. - Jeff Samuels: Expanded The Agency's Northern California presence while maintaining a culture of personalized service. - Both are recognized for driving strategy, building teams, and fostering innovation. Huge congratulations to Tara and Jeff on this well-earned recognition. We're incredibly proud of you both and grateful to have you as colleagues.