Horton pioneered a strategy of a decentralized operational model that empowered local leadership teams to make key business decisions like product offerings and pricing based on their respective markets – an unconventional approach at the time.
“The company’s local leadership teams have been and continue to be empowered to make local business decisions, such as product offerings, price points and home features,” the company’s statement read. “Today, we consider this important company tenet a critical ingredient to our past and future success.
“Over the years, Don traveled extensively, visiting the company’s field operations. During these visits, he made it a point to meet everyone in the sales offices, job sites and division offices, and he continually emphasized that the people in our operational teams are the key to our business success. Don was approachable and relatable to everyone he met and maintained an unassuming personal lifestyle, as he never forgot his humble beginnings and the hard work it took to succeed.”
Beyond his professional achievements, Horton is remembered for his humble, caring leadership style and commitment to treating employees like family. He founded a summer camp for employees’ children, created a foundation to assist staff impacted by natural disasters, and was known for personal acts of kindness toward workers.
Carl Harris, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders, issued a statement honoring Horton as “an icon in the home building industry” who “left an indelible mark” by helping over one million families become homeowners.
