An interview with National Integrity Title Agency’s President/Co-Owner
Fran Turchi
National Integrity Title Agency
President/Co-Owner
Years with company/firm: 25 years this year with NITA and its predecessor
Years in field: 40 years in May 2023
Years in real estate industry: 40 years
Real estate organizations / affiliations: American Land Title Association
What is your current position?
As the president and co-owner of National Integrity Title Agency (NITA), I wear many hats, but none is more important than building a culture and team with one shared goal – to ensure all clients are served at the highest caliber. I’ve been in the title insurance business for longer than I’d like to admit and still work hands-on, illustrating that no task is too routine, no challenge is too difficult, no team member is too experienced. That creates an environment of respect at every level of the company and a team that together provides the level of attention for each client.
How do you manage the work/life balance?
I’m not sure it’s ever possible to have the perfect balance yet I certainly try my best. When home, I’m there 100%. At the office, my focus is work 100%. I use the drive in between to create the separation and make that happen. Having this balance is not only for me but is something I champion at NITA – constantly reinforcing it among the team.
What challenges and or obstacles do you feel you needed to overcome to become as successful as you are today?
After taking ownership of NITA, I was struggling in a shift from management to a more leadership role. There was a “Work Fran” – rigid, detached, impersonal – and the “Real Fran” – one who was far more likely (and preferred) to dive into the trenches and work side-by-side with co-workers. I could not connect the two and lacked confidence to lead effectively. Then I had a “chance encounter” with a professional coach, who illustrated the value of “daring to lead” and showing vulnerability. Moreover, she had me recognize the importance of leading as the “Real Fran” versus a persona that was counterintuitive. My confidence soared by being myself and I loved work more than ever. Working with a coach has helped professionally but also personally. Family and friends all took notice. Most importantly, I’ve recognized the difference and am happier for it.
What was the most defining moment for you in the profession you are currently in?
It was when we moved to our new corporate headquarters. While my partner and I took over NITA in 2015, it didn’t feel different. We were in the same offices. My everyday routine was just that – routine. However, in 2019 we relocated, and I was an integral part of designing the client-centric, high-tech shared work environment. I recall at the ribbon cutting itself the sense of a new chapter in a home that we made our own.
What inspiring word of advice would you give to a young woman about to go into the field of commercial real estate or your allied field?
That’s an easy one … Don’t be afraid to ask for help. This is true at work as well as in life. Truly it is the key to growth in one’s career but also as a person.
Comments