Women in the Commercial Real Estate C-Suite

AZCREW Members Detail C-Suite Success in Commercial Real Estate

Established and emerging commercial real estate leaders in Arizona are harnessing their influence and utilizing AZCREW (Commercial Real Estate Women) as a platform to enact change, foster mutual support, and inspire new generations of women. Their collective efforts aim to transform the industry, moving women from outliers to central figures in commercial real estate.

Overcoming Industry-wide Gender Disparities

In the commercial real estate sector, where women have traditionally held 9% of C-suite positions according to a 2020 CREW Network benchmark study, several women leaders have emerged to challenge the status quo and shape new opportunities. Among these pioneers is Monica May-Dunn, the accomplished CEO and CFO of Arizona Escrow & Financial, who exemplifies the remarkable strides women can make in this demanding industry.

Spanning over three decades, Monica’s extensive career with Arizona Escrow & Financial (AEF) showcases a journey of growth, leadership, and resilience. Starting in 1990 as an assistant to the Controller, she quickly climbed the ranks. Her sharp skills and dedication resulted in her progressing to Controller and by 2000, she was named Vice President /CFO. In 2010, she became a minority owner, and by 2023, she acquired 100% of the company’s stock.

Under Monica’s leadership, AEF has expanded its scope from focusing solely on personal property escrow to offering a full suite of commercial real property services and managing holding accounts. Her strategic vision was instrumental in navigating the company through the economic uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic, and guided by her leadership, the company had its most successful year in 2023.

A Commitment to Community and Leadership

Passionate about giving back, she joined AZCREW and is involved in and supports numerous community organizations. In February of 2023 she launched the – Practical and Positive Leadership podcast, featuring honest conversations with business leaders who aren’t afraid to share their very real challenges and the successful strategies that worked for them.

With careers marked by consistent leadership and the ability to face industry challenges head-on, Monica and several of her fellow AZCREW members were featured in this month’s issue of AZRE magazine. Read the full article here in AZRE’s May 2024 Issue.

Arizona Escrow Editor

Editor at Arizona Escrow at Arizona Escrow & Financial | Web |  + postsBio ⮌

Founded in 1976 by Donald E. Graham, Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation is Arizona’s largest independent escrow provider, specializing in business sales, personal property, and commercial real estate transactions. Its customer base includes individuals, businesses, business and real estate brokers, law firms, commercial and SBA lenders, banks, major corporations, tribal communities, state and municipal government organizations and departments, internet entities, and other parties requiring an experienced and professional escrow company. Under the leadership of CEO Monica May-Dunn since 2023, AEF remains committed to personalized service, instilling confidence in clients, and setting the standard for excellence in the escrow industry. For more information, visit arizonaescrow.com/services. 

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