The National Housing Conference mourns the loss of Robert Reid, who led NHC for nearly a decade. Mr. Reid served as NHC’s 13th president and CEO from 1993 through 2002, when he retired to lead the Center for Housing Policy, NHC’s research arm. He guided NHC through one of its most successful periods.
Prior to NHC, Mr. Reid had a successful and varied business career that included ten years as a senior executive with Allstate Insurance Companies and tenures as President of the Charter Insurance Companies and Home Owners Warranty Corporation, and founder and principal of R.J. Reid Associates Inc. He earned B.S. and M.S. degrees in Agricultural Economics from the University of Missouri.
Bob Reid was a passionate advocate for fair housing and an important part of our history and success.
Conrad Egan both worked for Reid and followed him as CEO. “Through his superior leadership, he was the was a pivotal force in significantly strengthening NHC’s position of influence in this nation’s housing programs,” Egan said.
Long-serving NHC Board member and former chair of the NHC National Advisory Council, Barry Zigas also recalled Reid as and effective leader “helped stabilize and grow NHC during a difficult and challenging time. Today’s vibrant and effective NHC would not have been possible without Bob’s inclusive and steady leadership.” His changes to the Annual Housing Visionary Awards Gala “revitalized it and cemented its position as THE housing event of the year in Washington, D.C.,” Zigas said.
“Bob served NHC during a period of rapid growth, due in no small part to his remarkable good humor and grace in dealing with people as well as his solid business sense,” said John McIlwain, a past president of NHC. “He had a passion for housing and was a natural leader in the effort to refinance and restructure the Section Eight portfolio. And he was a dear friend. ”Joe Ventrone, a former NHC Board member and Republican Staff Director of the House Banking and Urban Affairs Committee said Reid was “a pragmatic advocate and a great steward of NHC.” Former NHC Board member Carol Lambert reflected on how effectively he conducted meetings, listening to different viewpoints.
We at NHC appreciate the work that he accomplished during his tenure and send our sincere condolences to his family and many close friends. May his memory be a blessing.
His full obituary can be read here. A memorial service is being planned.