Merri Jo Cowen

Merri Jo Cowen is an esteemed thought leader in the real estate industry, renowned for her exceptional leadership at the helm of Stellar MLS, the third largest MLS in the U.S., serving 84,000 members in Florida and Puerto Rico.

With a career spanning over four decades, Cowen’s journey in real estate showcases her enduring passion for the business. Her pioneering spirit was evident when she became the inaugural CEO of the Northern Nevada Regional MLS in 2003. Taking on the role of Stellar MLS CEO in 2008, Cowen has propelled the organization to new heights, expanding its customer base, shareholder organizations, and out-of-state and international data-share partnerships. Under her leadership, Stellar MLS launched a series of new products and programs, including Down Payment Resource, Finding Homes and SkySlope Offers.

Cowen recognizes the importance of high standards of data integrity, and is committed to maintaining Stellar’s status as a trusted resource for real estate professionals and consumers alike, providing accurate, up-to-date information, especially amid the NAR settlement.

“Guiding Stellar MLS and our customers through unprecedented changes has been both challenging and fulfilling,” she says. “This pivotal moment in the real estate industry provided an opportunity to adapt our operations and champion innovation and transparency in the market. We prioritized educating our customers about the upcoming changes and the implications for their businesses.”

Cowen is also the CEO of Universal Consulting Opportunities (UCO), a subsidiary of Stellar MLS, committed to supporting real estate professionals worldwide with expert guidance and customized solutions. Through powerful collaborations with global organizations like CEPI and FIABCI, UCO is dedicated to advancing innovation, building trust and ensuring transparency to strengthen real estate markets across borders.

A vocal proponent of fair housing, Cowen advocates for diversity, equity and inclusion within the industry. She sits on the board of directors of FIABCI-USA, the International Real Estate Federation, and is active in promoting the value of the MLS worldwide. In 2023, Cowen headlined an international MLS forum in Paris, France, speaking on the benefits of organized real estate and standardized data.

“Ultimately, what drives me is the knowledge that our work is making a tangible difference in the lives of our customers and their communities,” says Cowen. “Together, we are not just adapting to change; we are leading the future of real estate, ensuring that everyone has access to the resources they need to succeed.”