Karen Colonias

Karen Colonias is a prominent business leader known for her extensive tenure at Simpson Manufacturing Company, Inc., where she served as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) from January 2012 until her retirement in June 2023. Under her leadership, the company experienced significant growth, with revenues increasing from approximately $657 million in 2012 to over $1.573 billion by 2021.17

Early Career and Education

Colonias began her career at Simpson Strong-Tie in 1984 as an engineer in the research and development department. Over the years, she held various roles including Vice President of Engineering and Chief Financial Officer before becoming CEO. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering and an MBA, and is also a licensed professional engineer.24

Leadership Achievements

During her time as CEO, Colonias was instrumental in implementing strategic initiatives that focused on innovation and employee engagement. She led the company through numerous Lean initiatives, resulting in improved manufacturing capabilities and reduced product development times.4 Her leadership style emphasized a strong company culture, aligning with the values established by the company's founder, Barc Simpson. Colonias also filed 13 patents during her career, showcasing her commitment to engineering excellence.15

Legacy

Upon her retirement, the Karen Colonias Research Laboratory was named in her honor, reflecting her impact on the company and its commitment to innovation in building solutions.5 Colonias continues to serve on the board of directors for Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc., ensuring her influence on the company's future direction even after stepping down from executive roles.36

Overall, Karen Colonias is recognized not only for her business acumen but also for her dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and respect within the organization.