Ann Collins: Leading EMC to Financial Strength and Community Impact – Business Record’s CFO of the Year
Ann Collins, the Chief Financial Officer of EMC Insurance Companies, has been named Business Record’s CFO of the Year, a testament to her transformative leadership and dedication to both financial excellence and community service. Her journey to this recognition showcases a career built on strategic insight,operational discipline,and a commitment to sustainable growth.
A proven Track Record
Before joining EMC, Collins honed her financial expertise as CFO for WRBC affiliates Berkley Agribusiness and Berkley North Pacific. There, she wasn’t just a financial leader, but a strategic partner, contributing to the direction of three executive leadership teams.This experience laid the foundation for her success at EMC.
Turning the Tide at EMC
Under Collins’ guidance, EMC has experienced a remarkable turnaround. The company consistently earns an “excellent” rating from AM Best, a leading authority on the insurance industry, for both financial strength and long-term issuer credit. AM Best’s 2025 review specifically highlighted EMC’s “very strong” balance sheet and stable outlook.
But the improvements go beyond ratings. As noted by Jean, in a letter supporting her nomination, Collins’ focus on operational discipline has driven significant profitability gains. Here’s a snapshot of the positive impact:
* capital Adequacy: EMC has achieved industry-leading capital adequacy under Collins’ leadership.
* Surplus Growth: Policyholders’ surplus grew impressively, from $1.57 billion at the end of 2023 to $1.88 billion by mid-2025. This demonstrates prudent capital management.
* Profitability Reversal: A net loss in 2023 was flipped to a considerable net income of $241.8 million in 2024.
* Continued Momentum: The positive trend continued into the frist half of 2025, with a net operating income of $56.7 million. This reflects effective risk mitigation and operational improvements.
Beyond the Balance Sheet: A Community Leader
Collins’ commitment extends far beyond the walls of EMC. You’ll find her actively involved in several key organizations:
* Des Moines Symphony: She serves as a trustee, overseeing the Symphony’s entire financial structure and ensuring accurate, accessible financial reporting.
* Adel DeSoto Minburn Community Schools: As treasurer and audit/finance committee chair, she brings her financial expertise to support local education.
* Adel First Christian Church: She serves as both church treasurer and a member of the Honor Ministry Committee.
* EMC internal Initiatives: Collins is a dedicated member of the EMC Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Council and actively participates in Business Resource group and EMC Foundation events.
* Family Farm: alongside her husband, she operates a family farm in Adel, demonstrating a strong work ethic and connection to the land.
What This Means for You
Collins’ leadership isn’t just good for EMC; it’s a positive force for the entire community. Her dedication to financial stability, coupled with her commitment to service, sets a high standard for CFOs and business leaders alike.
Collins will be honored at the Business Record’s annual Economic Forecast event on January 20th at the FFA Enrichment Centre in Ankeny.
Learn More:
You can view past CFO of the Year honorees on BusinessRecord.com.
