Founder Nancy Walker stepping down; two long-time employees assuming ownership
Ron and Nancy Walker turn over the reins of the 32-year-old agency to Tara Robinson and Matt McEachern for the next era of the firm.
As of January 1, 2024, Founder and President Nancy Walker has stepped down from Walker Brands as two long-time employees, Tara Robinson and Matt McEachern, acquire the firm. Both have worked alongside Walker for decades and have helped build the agency into what it is today. They will be equal partners in the business.
“Tara and Matt were logical choices to continue to lead Walker Brands,” said Walker. “I couldn’t be more excited for them to move into ownership of something they have made major contributions to for many years. They understand our culture, they have a passion for our clients’ success, and are both well-respected in the industry. It’s never been a better time to support Florida in its continued growth and evolution.”
Robinson was formerly Vice President Brand Service. She joined the firm in 2013 and will assume the role of Owner, President. McEachern’s tenure with the firm spans 15+ years. He was formerly Creative Director and will assume the role of Owner, Chief Creative Office. Their award-winning work has been recognized by professional and industry groups nationwide.
“We are positioned for a dynamic era of growth as we advance our client-focused strategies.” Robinson said. “This transition marks a significant milestone, ensuring Walker Brands remains at the forefront of redefining excellence in the real estate branding landscape.”
“Tara and I are committed to carrying forward the unwavering standards and values established by Nancy Walker here at Walker Brands,” added McEachern. “It’s part of what defines our business and will guide us as we embark on this next chapter.”
Walker Brands was founded in 1992 by Nancy Walker as Walker Design Group. After establishing a strong tourism and destination marketing foundation during its early years, Walker moved into the real estate development space to capitalize on the enormous residential growth in Florida and rebranded itself as
Walker Brands. The firm has earned a national reputation in the industry serving some of the most successful real estate development firms in the launch and growth of their residential and mixed-use master planned communities. The firm offers a strong foundation of brand strategy services complemented by broad marketing capabilities and placemaking support. Its roster has included eight of the recent 50 Top Selling Master Planned Communities by RCLCO real estate consultants.
In 2008, the firm built Tampa’s first LEED Gold certified office building in partnership with The Beck Group to demonstrate brand in place, which garnered enormous attention and awards. The building helped showcase the firm’s understanding and expertise of the power of brand to create meaning, distinction and value.