Life & Work with Monica May-Dunn of Central Phoenix-Biltmore area

Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica May-Dunn

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am the Owner, CEO, and CFO of Arizona Escrow and Financial Corporation (AEF), a company that has set the gold standard in the business escrow industry since its inception in 1976.

My journey with AEF began in 1990 when, at the age of 22, I joined as an assistant to the Controller. By 1992, I had stepped into the role of Controller, and in 2000, I was appointed Vice President and CFO, cementing my pivotal position within the organization. In 2010, I became a minority owner of AEF, a testament to my unwavering commitment to the company’s growth and success. My visionary leadership and strategic acumen culminated in my full acquisition of 100% of the company’s stock in 2023. Under my stewardship, AEF has flourished, earning recognition as Arizona’s premier escrow service provider.

Over the years, I have expanded AEF’s offerings beyond personal property escrow to include commercial real estate services and the administration of holding accounts. My deep expertise in personal property transfers has been instrumental in delivering exceptional value and service to our clients. With a dedication to staying ahead of industry trends, I recently completed the Fintech Frameworks, Applications, and Strategies course through UC Berkeley, further enhancing AEF’s capacity to innovate and meet the diverse needs of its clientele.

During my tenure, I have guided the company through significant milestones, including record-breaking transaction volumes, streamlined operations, and enhanced profitability—even amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. My strategic leadership has driven the expansion of AEF’s service offerings, the broadening of its corporate footprint, and the relocation of our headquarters to a premier location in Phoenix’s Camelback business corridor. These efforts have positioned 2022-2024 as the most successful years in AEF’s history.

Beyond my professional achievements, I am deeply committed to contributing to Arizona’s vibrant community. I actively engage in civic and business organizations, including WATT Phoenix, AZCREW, the Women’s Presidents Organization, NAWBO, and the Greater Phoenix Chamber. Through these affiliations, I share my expertise and collaborate with fellow industry leaders to drive positive change in our region.

In 2024, my contributions and leadership were recognized extensively. I was featured on the cover of AZRE Magazine in their May/June special supplement, “Paving the Way,” and was honored as one of the “Most Influential Women in Commercial Real Estate 2024” in their July/August issue.

I am deeply passionate about empowering other women in the industry, supporting them as they navigate their own journeys to success. Reflecting on my 35-year career, I take immense pride in the dedication, resilience, and countless hours of hard work that have brought me to this point. I remain committed to fostering growth, innovation, and excellence—both within AEF and across our industry.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The challenges brought by COVID-19 were some of the most difficult I’ve faced in my career. As an essential business, we remained open, ensuring that all necessary protocols were in place and diligently followed to protect our team and clients while keeping operations running smoothly. Amidst this, a significant turning point occurred in March 2020 when our escrow team exited to join another title company, coinciding with the onset of the pandemic shutdowns. This upheaval, coupled with the passing of our founder in August 2020, made for an incredibly pivotal time.

Despite the uncertainty and complexity of the moment, I made the courageous decision to purchase the company, honoring the founder’s succession plan. Facing my fears of the unknown during the pandemic, I took a leap of faith and moved forward with the acquisition. This decision not only secured the future of Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation but also marked a defining moment in my career.

My journey with AEF has been intertwined with my personal life. Twenty-five years ago, I married my husband, who was a helicopter pilot stationed in Yuma, AZ. At the time, I had already been with AEF for a decade. The founder and I worked out a plan for me to commute to Phoenix once a week, allowing me to spend three days a week in the office. Since 2020, however, my commute has evolved into a more demanding schedule of four to five days per week. While this level of commitment might seem unimaginable to most, my love for this company and the work we do has always driven me forward.

I owe much of my ability to manage these challenges to the unwavering support of my incredible Team, husband and family. Their encouragement and understanding have been the foundation that allows me to pour my heart and energy into AEF, ensuring its continued success and growth.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation (AEF) has been a trusted partner in facilitating transactions and disbursements, serving as a reliable third party to oversee a wide range of transaction requirements.

At AEF, clear and efficient communication is at the core of our approach, ensuring seamless and successful closings.

We specialize in managing and overseeing the complexities of sales, purchases, and exchanges involving businesses—with or without real property—as well as personal property and other types of escrows. Our deep expertise enables us to facilitate the orderly transfer of property from sellers to buyers in a competent, cost-effective, and timely manner.

By definition, an escrow service serves as an unbiased third party with a fiduciary duty to all parties involved in a transaction. This impartiality fosters trust and confidence, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone. In today’s fast-paced landscape of real and personal property transactions, our specialized services are more essential than ever to guarantee the orderly and secure transfer of property.

In late 2023 I started a podcast focusing on positive leadership. I have 15 in the series recorded over the past 15 months.

What’s next?
I’m excited to announce plans to expand our team in the first quarter of 2025! We’re looking to add three key positions: an additional escrow officer, a marketing or business development professional, and an accounting/administrative team member. These new roles will enhance our capabilities and support our continued growth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.arizonaescrow.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arizonaescrow/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arizonaescrow
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monica-may-dunn-b19a04b
• Other: monica@arizonaescrow.com