Ward Isaacson: Finance & Commerce’s 2026 Leadership Award

Thursday, May 7th, 2026

Congratulations to Pope Design Group’s CEO, Ward Isaacson, on his recognition as a Finance & Commerce 2026 Leadership Award honoree. Ward was honored at the C-Level and Leadership Awards celebration on May 7, 2026, at Quincy Hall in Minneapolis.  

Finance & Commerce’s 2026 Leadership award recognizes those who are driving Minnesota’s business community through their vision, planning and hard work. Honorees were selected due to their records of success at work and their desire to give back to their communities. The program celebrates top owners and business leaders who consistently demonstrate remarkable leadership skills, integrity, values, vision, commitment to excellence, company performance, and community engagement. 

Ward started at Pope Design Group in 2003 to grow and develop the firm’s housing studio. He was named a Principal and stockholder in 2006, and Vice President in 2014. Ward was named President in 2015, taking on the vision and leadership role of the firm. In 2016, Ward was also named Chief Executive Officer following the retirement of firm founder Jon Pope. 

Today, Ward continues to serve as the firm’s CEO in supporting company operations, project planning, and fostering new and existing client relationships. Erica Larson was named President, and Gonzalo Villares named Vice President in 2026.  

Ward is passionate about the impact of good design, and the continued growth of the company. He is driven by fostering client and industry relationships and working collaboratively through the unique challenges and opportunities of each project.  

In his role, he works with Pope’s entire team to shape a culture that promotes inclusivity  for employees. His leadership is shaped by the core values of customer service, collaboration, quality design, and an entrepreneurial spirit (while having some fun too).  

Ward has helped establish Pope Design Group as a nationally-recognized leader in housing architecture and interior design, overseeing the firm’s work with providers and organizations across the country. 

Please join us in celebrating the leadership and impact of Ward Isaacson! 

Here is the Finance & Commerce C-Level and Leadership Awards profile for Ward.