Voyage Phoenix: Life & Work with Monica May-Dunn
VoyagePhoenix recently profiled Monica May-Dunn, CEO and owner of Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation (AEF), highlighting her 35-year journey from assistant to sole owner of Arizona’s largest independent escrow firm.
Monica began her career at AEF in 1990. She became Controller within two years, then Vice President and CFO by 2000. In 2023, she acquired full ownership of the company, leading AEF through record-breaking years, strategic relocation, and expanded service offerings.
Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was especially defining—navigating the sudden departure of her escrow team and the founder’s passing, she moved forward with the acquisition, honoring the founder’s succession plan.
Elevating the Industry
Monica expanded AEF’s services beyond personal property to include commercial real estate, holding accounts, and complex business transactions. She completed UC Berkeley’s Fintech Strategy course to keep the company on the cutting edge and continues to champion innovation and client trust.
She is also a committed community leader, active in groups like WATT Phoenix, AZCREW, and NAWBO. In 2024, she was featured in AZRE Magazine and recognized as one of the Most Influential Women in Commercial Real Estate.
What’s Next
In 2025, Monica plans to expand her team with new roles in escrow, marketing, and administration. She also continues producing her leadership podcast series, now with 15 episodes focused on positive, real-world insights.
