Local brokers told GlobeSt.com earlier this week that four finalists were being interviewed last week and that a decision would likely be made soon. They also said the company had been making moves to acquire local independent brokerages to further expand its market share. Shibuya categorically denied the rumor, saying the company is always looking to grow but is not currently having any discussions related to an acquisition.

Until a permanent successor is named, the company's executive director of Property Services David Pogue is overseeing the Pacific Northwest operations. On-the-ground oversight will be managed by Dwight Knapp, who will be charged with the daily operational and administrative tasks in the interim. The company's regional property management team will be led by Mark Walsh. All development operations will continue to be managed by Monte Haynes.

Shibuya previously told GlobeSt.com the financial package for the new director will depend on the individual. "If the person has deal making abilities like Sonna, we would allow them to be involved in commissions," says Shibuya, "while someone with a pure management background would likely utilize that component."