Feature Spotlight #31 - Monica May-Dunn

Her.collective Spotlight: Monica May-Dunn

In the ever-evolving world of title insurance, few women have made as profound an impact as Monica May-Dunn. As the CEO and owner of Arizona Escrow & Financial (AEF), her journey is one of resilience, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. With over 35 years of experience in the industry, Monica has built a legacy that continues to inspire women in title.

A Career Rooted in Dedication

Monica’s career began in 1990 when she joined AEF as an assistant to the Controller at just 22 years old. "I didn’t start out thinking I would one day own the company, but I was eager to learn and determined to grow," she reflects. Within two years, she was promoted to Controller, setting the stage for her rise to leadership. By 2000, she was named Vice President and CFO, further solidifying her role in shaping the company’s future. Her journey culminated in 2023 when she acquired 100% of the company’s stock, becoming its sole owner. Under her visionary leadership, AEF has expanded its offerings, strengthened its market position, and emerged as Arizona’s premier escrow service provider.

Her expertise extends beyond personal property escrow to include commercial real estate transactions and the administration of holding accounts. Recognizing the industry's evolving landscape, she completed the Fintech Frameworks, Applications, and Strategies course at UC Berkeley, ensuring AEF remains at the forefront of innovation. "The industry is always changing, and I believe staying ahead of trends is key to long-term success," she shares. Her ability to navigate industry trends and drive growth has led to AEF’s most successful years, including record-breaking transactions and a strategic relocation of its headquarters to Phoenix’s Camelback business corridor.

A Mentor Who Inspired a Vision

Throughout her career, Monica has valued mentorship, crediting Lisa Riley as a key influence in her professional journey. "Lisa didn’t just teach me about the business—she showed me what it meant to lead with integrity and vision," Monica says. Lisa’s leadership and unwavering support played a pivotal role in shaping Monica’s confidence and drive. Recognizing the importance of mentorship, Monica now strives to uplift and empower the next generation of women in the industry, passing down the invaluable lessons she has learned.

Overcoming Challenges with Resilience

One of the most defining moments of Monica’s career came in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges. As an essential business, AEF remained open, but the sudden departure of the escrow team to another title company added another layer of difficulty. Just months later, the company’s founder passed away, leaving Monica at a crossroads. Rather than succumbing to uncertainty, she embraced the challenge, honoring the founder’s succession plan by purchasing the company. "I was faced with a choice: let fear take over or take a leap of faith. I chose to step forward, and it was the best decision I ever made," she recalls. Her fearless leadership secured AEF’s future and demonstrated her unwavering commitment to its legacy.

Advice for the Next Generation

For young women entering the title industry, Monica offers invaluable advice:

• Master the Details: Understanding contracts, compliance, and timelines is essential.

• Build Strong Relationships: Success in escrow is built on trust with realtors, lenders, and clients.

• Find a Mentor: Learning from experienced professionals accelerates growth.

• Know Your Worth: Confidence in your knowledge and skills is key.

• Keep Learning: The industry is constantly evolving; staying informed is crucial.

• Own Your Leadership: Take initiative and step into leadership opportunities.

  
  

"This industry rewards those who show up, do the work, and build strong relationships," she emphasizes. "Be the person others can trust and depend on."

Finding Strength in Purpose

Monica’s drive stems from a deep commitment to impact, integrity, and legacy. She finds fulfillment in empowering clients and partners, continuously growing in her expertise, and creating opportunities for women in the industry. Her reputation for excellence fuels her passion, and her dedication to leadership ensures that she remains a guiding force in title insurance.

Her recommended resources for professional growth include “Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown and her own podcast, “Practical and Positive Leadership.” She also finds inspiration in The Ed Mylett Show, which shares high-performance strategies from top business minds.

Navigating Workplace Challenges with Grace

Monica acknowledges that women can sometimes face workplace aggression from other women. She believes in handling such challenges with professionalism, setting clear boundaries, and addressing issues directly. "Not every woman will be your ally, but that shouldn’t stop you from being one," she advises. Her philosophy is simple: focus on collaboration over competition, seek out supportive women, and lead by example.

A Passion for Balance and Commitment

Outside of work, Monica’s dedication to AEF is evident in her unique career journey. When she married her husband, a helicopter pilot stationed in Yuma, she and the company’s founder developed a plan that allowed her to commute weekly. Over the years, that commitment grew to traveling four to five days a week—proof that when you love what you do, you find ways to make it work. "My journey hasn’t been conventional, but it’s been worth every challenge," she says.

Her Guiding Philosophy: Integrity

For Monica, integrity is the foundation of everything. Trust is paramount in the title industry, and she believes that leading with honesty, precision, and professionalism is the key to long-term success.

"At the end of the day, your reputation is everything. Do the right thing, even when no one is watching."

A Legacy of Leadership and Impact

Monica’s vision for her legacy extends far beyond transactions. She hopes to be remembered for the lives she has touched, the leadership she has exemplified, and the industry standards she has helped elevate. "It’s not just about closing deals—it’s about the people we serve, the partnerships we build, and the mark we leave behind."

A Message to Women in Title

To the Her.collective, Monica shares these words:

• Own Your Expertise – Your knowledge is your power.

• Support, Don’t Compete – Lifting others up strengthens the entire industry.

• Lead with Integrity & Confidence – Character defines success more than titles.

• Never Stop Growing – Continuous learning leads to career longevity.

• Trust Your Journey – Every challenge shapes your legacy.

Monica May-Dunn is a beacon of strength and inspiration in the title industry. Her story serves as a reminder that resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment can break barriers and pave the way for a lasting impact. Through her dedication, she is not just shaping a successful company—she is shaping an industry and empowering the women who will lead it into the future.

Thank you, Monica for being such a classy women of title!

**Connect with Monica here: monica@arizonaescrow.com I LinkedIn I Instagram I Facebook