Kathy Brown Zerwas

Kathy acquired Designer Sign Systems, a 25-year old business with a marvelous history and track record, in 2005.  Under her leadership Designer Signs has grown into the premier wayfinding and signage company of our region. 

Kathy’s primary focus is on product design, market channels, process improvement and developing the best talent for Designer Signs.

Kathy has 20 years of experience spanning finance, operations management, and business development in various industries including healthcare, manufacturing, aviation, telecommunications, and distribution.  Her experience includes roles as COO and CFO for three technology-based venture-based startup companies which were developed and acquired.  She was Vice President of Operations for Metacom Music where she led the warehousing, distribution, procurement, information systems, and customer service functions.

She held both financial and operational leadership roles within Northwest Airlines responsible for over $4.0 billion in expense management and $1.0 billion in capital investment.  Kathy also led the design, development, and startup of a $50M aircraft maintenance facility in Duluth, Minnesota.  Kathy served as Director of Avionics and Aircraft maintenance responsible for the 350 personnel and facilities to support overhaul and repair of flight instrumentation equipment for Northwest Airlines worldwide fleet.