Ellis Ivory, the founder and retired CEO of Ivory Homes, has taken the helm of the Morning News board, continuing a legacy of leadership that spans decades of Utah business and civic development. The appointment brings a veteran figure in the state' and real estate industry to the forefront of news media governance.
Foundations of Ivory Homes
The University of Utah’s College of Social and Behavioral Science highlighted Ivory’s extensive background in both the private and public sectors. A graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science, Ivory began his career in real estate in 1964 following his graduation from the university.
In 1967, Ivory partnered with Roger Boyer—his Sigma Chi fraternity brother and future brother-in-law—to form Ivory and Boyer Co. The duo is credited as the original developers of Bloomington, a prominent community located just south of St. George. This early venture laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most significant residential development footprints in Southern Utah.
Evolution of a Homebuilder
During the 1970s, Ivory transitioned his focus toward real estate brokerage and home site development through the establishment of Ivory and Company. However, shifting economic conditions during the 1980s necessitated a strategic pivot toward residential construction, leading to the birth of Ivory Homes.
Under his leadership, the company grew into a major regional force with nearly 50 locations distributed along the Wasatch Front and St. and George. In 2000, marking a significant generational transition, Ivory sold the business to his son, Clark D. Ivory. Following the sale, Ellis Ivory entered retirement in 2001.
A Legacy of 34 Years
The company’s current leadership continues to manage the legacy established by the founder. According to Ivory Homes, the company is currently celebrating 34 years of operation and has completed 20,000 new homes. The firm, which was recognized as ProBuilder Magazine's National Homebuilder of the Year, remains locally owned and operated.
Clark Ivory, the current CEO, emphasized a commitment to core principles during the company's anniversary. He noted that while successful companies must change and innovate, their fundamental values remain constant. The company operates under what employees call the 'Five P’s': people, product, process, planet, and profit.
Civic and Academic Service
Beyond his real estate achievements, Ellis Ivory has maintained a high profile in Utah's civic and religious institutions. He previously served as the chairman of the Deseret News Publishing Company Board of Directors and held the position of vice chairman for the Newspaper Agency Corporation.
His involvement in community foundations includes serving as chairman of the This Is the Nation Foundation and as a member of the Hale Centre Theatre National Advisory Board. Additionally, his service to the University of Utah has included roles on the Health Sciences Council, the Diabetes Advocacy Board, and the Alumni Association Board of Directors.
Recognitions and Religious Service
Ivory's leadership extended into religious service, having served as a stake president for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Between 1979 and 1982, he and his wife, Kathryn, served as an LDS Church mission president in England.
His contributions to the Utah business community have been recognized with several prestigious honors. In 2006, he was named a Junior Achievement of Utah Laureate, and on May 21, 2009, the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce presented him with the 'Giant in Our City' award.
Future Outlook
As Ivory Homes continues its expansion across Utah, the company remains focused on affordability, quality, design, energy efficiency, and sustainability. The firm maintains corporate offices in Salt Lake City, Davis County, Utah County, and St. George.
