Title: Chief Financial Officer
Company: Commercial Design Systems, Inc.
Location: Sherwood, OR United States

Driven by her interest in strategic financial planning, Mary Collins joined Commercial Design Systems, Inc., a couple of years ago because they needed her help. The branding company provides image development, fixture planning, custom fabrication, décor, project management, and manufacturing services to primarily retail and grocery stores. As the chief financial officer, Ms. Collins is responsible for managing the IT and accounting department and handling insurance, auditing, payroll, and taxes. Her coworkers credit her efforts with saving the company during a severe industry recession.

Ms. Collins got her start in the accounting world in 1974. She attended the State University of New York and Buffalo, Clark Community College, and Portland University, where she completed extensive training for her career. Ms. Collins attributes her success to her female college professors, her mother and her great-grandmother, who inspire her.

The highlight of Ms. Collins’ career was attaining a chief financial officer role in a predominately male industry. It hasn’t always been easy, but she worked hard, and aims to be known as someone who gets things done. Looking forward, Ms. Collins hopes to retire in 10 years. She is an honored member of The International Women’s Leadership Association, and enjoys oil painting when she has spare time.

Contact Mary Collins