William Johnston’s path to the top wasn’t a climb—it was an immersion. As Chief Executive Officer of Johnston & Co, he is both a strategist and steward, building trust in a sector where precision and timing define success. Johnston learned early in his real estate career that relationships drive results. That principle has carried him through decades of service and into a leadership role defined by purpose, performance and people.
The past three years have brought strategic growth at Johnston & Co. Johnston and his team have worked closely with families and institutions to preserve and expand generational wealth through real estate. By staying rooted in the community while embracing digital evolution, the company has served legacy clients and attracted new ones. Each step has been intentional, strengthening their role as a trusted partner in Arizona’s property landscape.
What makes Johnston a Titan 100 Honoree isn’t only what he has built, but how he has done it—with humility, clarity and consistency. In an industry marked by volatility, he offers a steady presence. His decisions are informed by listening and clear principles, a combination that inspires confidence among clients and colleagues alike.
He sees the future of work as an opportunity to deepen collaboration and mentorship. Johnston & Co is focused on growing talent that understands both the data and dynamics of real estate. Johnston emphasizes soft skills as much as technical ones, knowing that a great advisor must be empathetic and trustworthy. Investing in communication and judgment training is part of preparing his team to meet tomorrow’s challenges.
Johnston maintains his passion for the business by focusing outward—on the people his work impacts. He believes leadership is a responsibility to others, not just a title. His enthusiasm is visible in the way he engages with clients, shares insights with younger professionals and supports his team’s development.
The skill he would most want to master is communication—real, intentional and meaningful conversation. Johnston believes most issues stem from miscommunication, and that listening with care is the key to resolution. Though he works on this skill every day, he sees deeper understanding as essential. Whether connecting with clients or team members, he sees communication as foundational to lasting relationships and clarity in leadership.
Over the next five years, Johnston envisions a company that continues to grow in scale while remaining intimate in feel. He’s focused on developing internal successors and reinforcing a firm culture that values honesty and reliability. Expansion won’t mean dilution—it will mean depth.
Johnston stands out because of his credibility. His clients trust him not just with their assets, but with their futures. He’s known for delivering results without ego, setting a standard of integrity that elevates everyone around him.
He is proud of the steady progression of his career—each decision deliberate, each partnership cultivated with care. The milestone that means the most isn’t a number or award, but the firm he has helped shape into a respected institution.