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Sotheby’s International Realty

Real Estate, Residential Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Names Kevin Gonzales as Chief Operating Officer

Kevin Gonzales brings 27 years of real estate experience to the role, all within the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty umbrella.

Arizona’s leader in luxury real estate, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is pleased to announce the internal promotion of a long-time team member to a critically important role.

Kevin Gonzales was recently promoted to the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Gonzales brings with him 27 years of expansive experience at the luxury brokerage, and he most recently served as the company’s vice president of operations. Gonzales’ passion for real estate began in 1996 when he started with Russ Lyon Realty Company. A consistent top producer, Gonzales decided to step away from the sales side in 2007 and accepted a position as the Branch Manager of the Russ Lyon Realty Pinnacle Peak Office.

In 2019, Gonzales was promoted to Vice President of Operations for Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, where, in addition to continuing to manage the Pinnacle Peak Office, he was given the additional responsibilities of supervising all areas of operations, which included overseeing the managing brokers of each branch as well as the operations departments, which is comprised of the firm’s marketing, relocation, IT, training, and agent development functions.

“Kevin Gonzales has been a tremendous asset to our brokerage since he joined us in 1996. There is probably no one more seasoned or better at overseeing so many diverse areas of our operations than Kevin. Between his vast knowledge of real estate, his leadership and his great ability to work with people, we couldn’t be prouder to continue to elevate Kevin here at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty,” said CEO Todd Gillenwater of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.

Gonzales assumed the Chief Operating Officer role on January 1st, 2024. In addition to the responsibilities noted above in his capacity as Vice President of Operations, Gonzales will be more involved in expanding the brand and sourcing new technology and systems to add additional value to the firm and its agents.

“Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is a special place,” said Gonzales. “I am especially grateful to this incredible organization and committed to assisting all of our branch managers, department heads, brokers, agents and back-office personnel to offer our clients the highest level of service and success in the industry.”

In addition to the promotion of Gonzales, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has had several other noteworthy personnel changes. 44-year veteran of the firm, Deems Dickinson, recently announced his retirement; he was most recently in the role of Designated Broker for the state of Arizona. Attorney and Broker Bret Lamberson was promoted from the role of Managing Broker to replace Dickinson as the firm’s Designated Broker.

Real Estate, Residential Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Names Bret Lamberson as Designated Broker

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Announces The Promotion of Attorney and Broker Bret Lamberson as The Brokerage’s New Statewide Designated Broker

Lamberson has assumed the role of statewide Designated Broker, succeeding the retiring Deems Dickinson.

Arizona’s Leading Luxury Brokerage, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, is pleased to announce the appointment of Attorney and Broker Bret Lamberson to lead the brokerage’s most crucial role.


Bret Lamberson will be taking on the role of statewide Designated Broker and replacing Deems
Dickinson, who is retiring after 44 years with the brokerage. A Designated Broker is heavily involved
in the operations of running the company and managing critical functions such as hiring new agents,
establishing policies and procedures for the firm, overseeing all real estate contracts, and setting
company goals.


“I am incredibly honored and humbled by the trust that Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty
has shown by bestowing this opportunity onto me. Deems Dickinson has left some massive and
inspiring shoes to fill, but at the same time, he serves as an excellent role model and mentor as we
embark on some historic times overseeing some of the state’s most significant sales,” said
Lamberson.


Lamberson, who grew up in Flagstaff, Arizona, was an exemplary student and athlete,
excelling in his studies, alpine skiing racing, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting. He joined Russ
Lyon Realty of Flagstaff in 2005 quickly ascended to one of the top Realtors in Flagstaff.
“Bret is a brilliant and very forward-thinking talent in our company. He not only
brings the legal background and very vast knowledge of our real estate laws and contracts, but he
also has the people skills to lead our growing network of 950 agents, which now expands to 13 offices
across the state and continues to grow in the luxury sector,” said CEO Todd Gillenwater of Russ
Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.


Lamberson, who moved to San Francisco in 2012, earned his law degree and was admitted to the
California State Bar, where he practiced real estate and immigration law. Family and the draw of all things Arizona brought him back to Flagstaff in 2018, where he was admitted into the Arizona State
Bar and appointed Managing Broker of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Flagstaff
offices. On January 1st, 2024, he assumed the role of Designated Broker for Russ Lyon Sotheby’s
International Realty statewide.


Lamberson and his wife, Stephanie, reside in Flagstaff and split time between the high country and
their home in the historic district of downtown Phoenix with their children: their two-year old son
Hendricks and one-month-old daughter Willa Jane.

In The News, Real Estate, Residential Real Estate

Deems Dickinson Retires as Designated Broker and President

Accomplished Designated Broker and President Deems Dickinson of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Retires and Reflects on 44 Years Guiding Arizona’s Leading Luxury Brokerage.

Dickinson Led a Team of 900+ Agents and Oversaw Four Decades of Real Estate Transactions at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, Including Some of the State’s Highest Sales.

Arizona’s Luxury Leader Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty announces with great regards and gratitude the retirement of one of its longest-tenured and most impactful company leaders.


Deems Dickinson has been part of the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty family for an
incredible 44 years, retiring as President and Designated Broker, a role that he held for 14 years with
the firm, having previously served as Managing Broker of 5 different offices for 25 years on behalf
of the company.


Dickinson ended his career as a REALTOR Emeritus and exemplified a spirit of service and a
lifetime of learning, as he served as an Advisory Council Member of the Russ Lyon Foundation, on
the Board of Directors of the Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service (ARMLS), and on the Board
of Directors of The Realty Alliance. He had previously been on the Board of Directors for the
National Association of REALTORS, the Chair of the Professional Standards Committee of the
Scottsdale and Arizona Associations of REALTORS, and served as the Director of Training for the
Elite School of Real Estate.


Reflecting on his career, Dickinson said, “As the steward of such a remarkable company, I have had
many opportunities in the real estate industry locally, across the state of Arizona, and nationally,
which allowed me to grow my career to what it is today. I will always cherish the lifelong friendships
and business relationships that I have developed over the last 44 years.”

As for what’s next for Dickinson, he is looking forward to schedule-free mornings, time with his
wife Betsy, their grandchildren, and adult children, traveling and volunteering for causes they care
about. He also looks forward to enjoying his passion for the outdoors in greater depth, including
fishing, jeeping, hiking and camping, golf, and pickleball. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty
thanks him for both how he helped the firm grow, as well as the personalized expertise and warm,
white-glove service he provided to the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty family.


“It is with an overwhelming amount of gratitude and pride and that we congratulate Deems on 44 years with our company. I began working with Deems when my father Dennis Lyon, was still running the company many decades ago. Deems’ knowledge, patience, and leadership has not only
been an inspiration to all our agents but also to my own family and everyone who has had the pleasure of working with him these last four decades. We will miss him tremendously, but we know he will have some great times ahead in retirement.”

Jim Lyon, Owner and Chairman of Russ
Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty


Dickinson will be succeeded as the statewide Designated Broker by Bret Lamberson. Lamberson
grew up in Flagstaff, AZ, and joined Russ Lyon Realty of Flagstaff in 2005. Lamberson is a licensed
attorney in Arizona and California. He and his wife, Stephanie, reside in Flagstaff and split time in
their home in the historic district of downtown Phoenix with their two young children.

New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Katie Mullins

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Katie Mullins to our Camelback Tower Office. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 

Katie is filled with enthusiasm as she embarks on her journey as a real estate agent. With a solid foundation in Marketing/Advertising, she brings a wealth of expertise that has proven invaluable in various aspects of her life. Having spent her formative years in the charming Arcadia/Paradise Valley area, Katie possesses a deep understanding of what makes these communities truly unique.

Her natural talent for connecting with people and putting them at ease is evident from the moment she meets them. Katie is dedicated to ensuring that the process of buying or selling a home becomes a delightful and stress-free experience for her clients.

Family means a lot to all of us at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty and Katie has both her professional and person family in the company! Meeting her was an absolute joy and the professionalism and dedication she brings into the brand is astounding!

Sherri Monteith, Managing Broker
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Christina Covault

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Christina Covault to our Camelback Tower Office. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 


With 15 years of legal experience under her belt, Christina brings a wealth of expertise to her real estate business, where she consistently serves her clients with professionalism and efficiency.

Having been an Arizona resident for nearly two decades, Christina possesses a deep understanding of the local real estate landscape and remains well-informed about both regional and national economic trends. Before embarking on her real estate career, she held the role of a state and federal prosecutor, specializing in cases involving violent crimes. In her capacity as a federal prosecutor, she skillfully managed numerous criminal cases from their inception to their resolution, taking the lead in multiple jury trials and appeals. Christina holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University and a law degree from the University of Arizona.

Her previous legal career has honed a set of skills that uniquely distinguish her as a real estate advisor, including clear and concise communication, extensive negotiation experience, fluency in legal writing, unwavering responsiveness, and meticulous attention to detail. These qualities not only set her apart but also provide her clients with a sense of security and peace of mind.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Christina is deeply committed to serving her community. She actively serves as a board member for the Phoenix Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, Awakening Seed School, and the All Saints’ Episcopal Day School Parent Association. She takes immense pride in her association with Georgetown University, having devoted approximately 15 years to the Alumni Admissions Program Arizona committee, where she conducts interviews with applicants from across the Valley.

Although originally hailing from Orange County, California, Christina’s life experiences have also taken her to various parts of South America and Asia. She has a passion for extensive travel and boasts conversational fluency in both Spanish and Mandarin Chinese. Her diverse interests include a love for cooking and baking, maintaining an active lifestyle through yoga and her Peloton bike, savoring the natural beauty of Arizona, and cherishing quality time spent with her family and friends.

Meeting Christina was such a breath of fresh air. Highly professional, educated and so easy to work with. She’s thorough, extremely sharp and with her background in law, an obvious great hire for our brand.

Sherri Monteith, managing broker
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Lynsey Gaumen

Lynsey Gauman emerges as a prominent figure in the realm of real estate, boasting a distinctive blend of fervor, local expertise, and an unwavering zest for life that she extends to her clientele. Hailing from the charming landscapes of Arizona, Lynsey’s profound ties to the community and her deep affection for everything that is Arizona render her the natural choice for those in search of a dependable real estate ally.

Beyond her real estate career, Lynsey’s heart belongs to adventure, and she’s a dedicated enthusiast of fitness. When winter descends, she can be found carving through pristine powder on her snowboard, and as the summer sun shines, you’ll frequently discover her exploring the myriad hiking trails and lakes while relishing the breathtaking vistas that Arizona generously provides. When she’s not in the midst of a workout or brokering real estate deals, you might catch her reveling in the delightful company of adorable puppies or indulging in cocktails at her preferred local happy hour venues.

Lynsey’s dynamic persona, profound understanding of Arizona’s real estate landscape, and heartfelt adoration for her community seamlessly establish her as the ultimate choice for those seeking to buy or sell property in Arizona. Under her guidance, rest assured that your real estate aspirations will be approached with professionalism, enthusiasm, and a personal touch. In Lynsey’s eyes, you’re not just a client; you’re a cherished member of the Arizona community she proudly calls home.

Lynsey Gauman is an incredible addition to the SEV award winning team. Lynsey has grown up here in AZ and has had family in RE for years. Lynsey graduated from ASU with a degree in Exercise and Wellness. During covid she decided it was time to get her real estate license so she could start helping others to reach their goals and dreams when it comes to buying, selling and or wealth building through real estate. Lynsey has great communication skills and is an excellent negotiator. The great thing for Lynsey is that she will be working with family as she is now part of “The Arizona Gold Team”. They are well known for horse property throughout the state. Lynsey’s spirit is contagious and she will not disappoint.

Cath Green, Managing Broker
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Teresa Arthur

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Teresa Arthur to the Pinnacle Peak Office. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 

Teresa Arthur is a seasoned professional who seamlessly blends creativity with a dedication to helping others achieve their real estate aspirations. Originally hailing from the Pacific Northwest, she pursued her education there and embarked on her career in the dynamic Nike Film and Video Production field right after college. Teresa then took a break to start a family while indulging in landscape design.

In 2013, Teresa unearthed her true calling in assisting clients with their real estate endeavors. Since then, she has wholeheartedly committed herself to the industry, obtaining her real estate license as a reputable agent in Oregon with the esteemed Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty. As a new chapter unfolds in her life, Teresa and her husband have moved to Arizona, where she eagerly seizes fresh opportunities by becoming part of Russ Lyon Sotheby’Sotheby’stional Realty.

Outside her thriving professional life, Teresa remains actively engaged in positively impacting her community. She dedicates her time to fostering rescue dogs through Desert Labrador Retriever Rescue, displaying her compassionate nature and a solid commitment to giving back.

During her leisure hours, Teresa relishes quality moments with her loved ones, immerses herself in travel adventures, enjoys captivating movies, and explores the great outdoors. Her warm and approachable demeanor and an unwavering dedication to meeting her client’s needs, client’s her an invaluable asset in the real estate journey.

Whether you are in the market to buy, sell, or seek expert guidance in the Arizona real estate market, Teresa Arthur is the friendly, knowledgeable, and trustworthy professional upon whom you can depend to turn your dreams into reality.

New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Stephanie Wiggins

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest level of service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Stephanie Wiggins to the Southeast Valley Office. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 

Stephanie Wiggins is a dedicated real estate professional situated in the beautiful landscapes of Arizona. With a master’s degree in psychology, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every real estate transaction. Stephanie’s passion for both indoor and outdoor spaces shines through in her work. When she’s not assisting clients in finding their ideal homes, she is often found hiking the stunning trails of Arizona or enjoying outdoor adventures. Her deep love for nature not only fuels her interests but also provides her with a unique understanding of the local communities and neighborhoods.

Beyond real estate, Stephanie is a wellness enthusiast, firmly believing that a happy home is a healthy one. She is committed to ensuring that your new home not only satisfies your housing needs but also aligns with your overall well-being. Stephanie is ready to embark on this exciting real estate journey with you. Whether you’re in the market to buy, sell, or invest, she is here to provide guidance every step of the way. Together, let’s discover your dream property in the enchanting landscapes of Arizona.

Stephanie is a phenomenal individual. She has her BS degree in Exercise and Wellness from ASU and an MS degree in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. She has a deep desire for serving others. She’s an excellent communicator and has a passion for assisting others in buying or selling their home and also a passion in wealth building through real estate investing. Her ability to listen to others and build trust quickly allow her to help others accomplish goals and dreams when it comes to real estate. Stephanie is a wonderful addition to our SEV award winning office.

Cathy Green, Managing Broker
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Maggie Hadcock


Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest level of service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Maggie Hadcock to the Camelback Tower Office. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 

Having earned a place with Teach for America, Maggie relocated to Phoenix, where she took on the role of a second-grade teacher at a charter school in the Valley. According to her, the most rewarding aspect of being an educator was cultivating connections with students and their families and witnessing those “light bulb” learning moments.

Maggie aspires to bring her educational background into the real estate arena by offering her clients exceptional listening and communication skills, along with a commitment to building strong relationships. Her time with Teach for America instilled in her the values of patience, empathy, active listening, and the importance of adding an element of fun to the learning process. These qualities extend beyond the classroom and are equally vital in comprehending and addressing the diverse requirements of real estate clients. Just as she customized her teaching methods to cater to each student’s unique needs, Maggie is dedicated to tailoring her real estate services to ensure that her clients’ dreams and objectives are met with precision and care. She recognizes that real estate transactions are pivotal life events filled with emotions and aspirations.

Originally hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Maggie has come to relish the sunny and warm climate of Arizona. So, when Maggie isn’t assisting you in finding your dream home or navigating the real estate market, you can count on her pursuing the excitement of trail running, experimenting with ice cream sandwich creations, and creating enduring memories with the people who hold a special place in her heart.

Maggie is an absolute joy to be around. She’s organized, intelligent and such a great listener! She will be an asset to our company, as well as a wonderful real estate professional to her clients. She exudes professionalism.

SHERRI MONTEITH, MANAGINg BROKER
New Hire

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Heather Hocevar

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest level of service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor Heather Hocevar to the West Valley Office. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 

After dedicating the majority of her professional life to the medical field, Heather has accumulated invaluable experience and finely honed her skills in the healthcare sector. With her children now having left the nest, Heather has made the exciting decision to embark on a new journey in the realm of real estate.

Her primary goal is to provide all her clients with a positive and stress-free experience. Heather’s remarkable creative problem-solving abilities and keen attention to detail ensure that every facet of the real estate process is executed with the utmost care and precision.

Heather currently resides in the picturesque West Valley with her three beloved dogs. She has a deep passion for interior design, a love for the arts, and a special place in her heart for animals.

We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to our newest agent, Heather Hocevar! With confidence in her expertise and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service, we anticipate her invaluable contributions and dynamic energy to further strengthen Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty as a united, client-focused company. Heather, we are excited to have you on board and look forward to achieving great success together.

CINDY SMITH, WEST VALLEY, BRANCH MANAGER