Women of Title Spotlight: Kristi Smith –
A Journey of Service, Leadership, and Integrity
In this special feature for Women of Title, we are excited to highlight Kristi Smith, Executive Vice President at Landmark Title Assurance Agency. With over 13 years in title insurance and 19 years in the broader industry, Kristi’s path is one of leadership, resilience, and a deep commitment to helping others. From the beginning of her career to her current role, Kristi has exemplified what it means to lead with integrity, build others up, and create a lasting legacy.
From Mortgage to Title: A Career Rooted in Relationships
Kristi’s entry into the world of real estate and title insurance came by way of a friend in Texas who owned a mortgage brokerage. Encouraged to get her loan officer license, Kristi spent two years as a loan officer, followed by a role as an in-house lender with PHH Mortgage for the largest real estate brokerage in El Paso.
In 2008, her late husband accepted a position in Phoenix, prompting a move that would alter the course of Kristi’s career. She transferred with PHH but soon sought more balance between her professional life and her home responsibilities. "I went from doing 30-40 loans a month to around 8, which allowed me to be more present at home," Kristi recalls.
Her involvement in title insurance began after an escrow officer convinced her to join the industry as a Business Development Manager. Within a short time, Kristi transitioned into resale, and by 2014, she accepted a position as Vice President of Sales for Old Republic Title. In 2017, she joined Landmark Title to expand the company’s residential footprint. Under her leadership, Landmark Title grew from one office to seven in Arizona and two in Nevada.
Mentorship and Leadership: A Legacy of Service
Kristi credits much of her professional growth to her late mother-in-law, Jill Smith, whose philanthropic work shaped her approach to leadership. "She got me involved in service with multiple organizations," Kristi says. Jill’s mentorship taught her valuable lessons about being a servant leader and truly listening to others—a philosophy Kristi applies in both her personal and professional life.
"Learning to connect people to the right sources to solve problems and meet needs is crucial, whether you’re working with clients or leading a team," Kristi emphasizes. It’s this approach that has made her an admired and respected leader in the industry.
Challenges and Advice for Women in Title
While Kristi acknowledges that the title industry can be male-centric, especially in leadership roles, she believes the challenges women face in the field apply to everyone. Her advice to younger women entering the title industry is simple but powerful: "Never stop learning. Don’t allow others to set your limitations—this industry offers unlimited opportunity. And always bring others up with you as you grow."
Kristi’s focus on integrity is evident in everything she does. She advises, "Serve at a higher level, never compromise your integrity, and support one another. We’re in a competitive industry, but that doesn’t mean we can’t operate with integrity."
Faith, Family, and a Strong ‘Why’
When asked what drives her, Kristi’s answer is deeply rooted in her faith. "My belief in God and Jesus Christ sustains me and gives me the strength to move forward," she says. Kristi attributes her success not to her own efforts but to her faith, humbly giving all glory to God.
Her passion for family, giving back to others, and her love of hiking and travel are central to who she is outside of the workplace. Kristi’s colleagues may not be surprised by these passions, but they are integral to what fuels her energy and focus.
A Legacy of Service and Integrity
Kristi’s guiding principle in work and life is simple: "Always do the right thing, and people first." She strives to leave a legacy of difference-making in the lives of those she has led and served. Looking back at her career, Kristi reflects on her journey with gratitude, knowing that her hard work, along with the support and mentorship of others, has brought her to where
she is today. "I hope that I gave exponentially more than I received," she says, always focused on uplifting those around her.
Final Thoughts for the Women of Title Community
To the Women of Title community, Kristi leaves a powerful message: "Be kind to one another. Lift each other up. Mentor one another." Her words are a reminder that while the title industry may be competitive, collaboration and support are the keys to building lasting success, both individually and collectively.
Kristi Smith’s journey is one of faith, resilience, and service, and her leadership has left an indelible mark on the title insurance industry. Her story is a testament to the power of integrity, continual learning, and the importance of helping others along the way.
Thank you, Kristi, for always being an inspiring, impressive Woman of Title!
**Connect with Kristi here: Kristi.smith@ltaz.com I LinkedIn I Instagram I Facebook
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