Ellen Willadsen joined Holmes Murphy in 1995. During her more than 29 years with the company, she’s played a key role in increasing Holmes Murphy’s profitability and providing invaluable counsel on major financial decisions. 

From 1995 to 2021, Ellen served as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), assisting in all strategic and tactical matters as they relate to budget management, evaluation of potential acquisitions, cost benefit analysis, and Holmes Murphy’s overall vision of growth. 

In 2021, Ellen transitioned to the role of Chief Innovation Officer (CIO) and serves as Holmes Murphy’s Executive Sponsor for BrokerTech Ventures. For many previous years, Ellen served on the Holmes Murphy Executive Committee  and as a director on Holmes Murphy’s Board. She also previously served on the perpetuation, compensation, and audit committees, providing insight and helping make informed decisions that affect the entire company

A graduate of the University of Iowa, Ellen continues to contribute her diligent work ethic and financial expertise to move Holmes Murphy forward in achieving dynamic growth and innovation.

Ellen is an active participant in the United Way’s Women United. She is also a member of the Iowa Society of CPA’s, was named the ISCPA’s Outstanding CPA in Business and Industry in 2019 and inducted into the Iowa Insurance Hall of Fame in 2022. Additionally, Ellen is a member of the Financial Executive Women (FEW) — an organization focused on mentoring and supporting women working in the financial sector.