Lisa Johnson said she feels fortunate to have been raised in a very entrepreneurial family where her parents instilled in her the values of hard work and business acumen from an early age. “Their guidance and mentorship have been instrumental throughout my journey,” said Johnson.
As a 25-year-old mother of two, fresh from graduating from ASU’s School of Business, Johnson harbored a deep-seated ambition to establish a business of her own. Recognizing a gap in the market in 1984, she envisioned Corporate Interior Systems as more than just a supplier of office furnishings; she saw it as a collaborative partner for the design and architectural communities, working in tandem rather than in competition. With a well-crafted marketing plan and a solid business strategy, Johnson launched the company.
Corporate Interior Systems’ (CIS) primary industry is classified as office furniture dealership sales and design relating to corporate, higher education, government and healthcare. Founded in 1985, CIS is in the top 10 woman-owned businesses and top 6 office furniture dealerships in the state, representing over 250 brands with a Haworth best-in-class dealer designation.
Despite starting with just nine employees, CIS has flourished to a team of 35, expanding year after year. The firm and Johnson have been recognized for exceptional leadership as a woman within the community by local publications, such as AZ Big ZMedia’s AZRE Magazine and AZ Central. Additionally, Johnson was a finalist for the ATHENA Award – business woman of the year – from the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce.
“Becoming an entrepreneur involves more than just starting a business; it’s about embracing a mindset of innovation, risk-taking and perseverance,” said Johnson. “As an advocate for entrepreneurship, I emphasize the importance of recognizing opportunities, leveraging strengths and overcoming challenges.”
What she is most proud of is starting the Gregg E. Kollman Charitable Foundation named after Johnson’s brother who passed away from cancer in his early 40s. “I wanted to find a way to honor him and keep his name and legacy alive because he truly valued and loved people and education,” she said.
Johnson also fosters an environment where individuals are encouraged to pursue their passions, think creatively and turn their ideas into reality. “Through mentorship, education, and access to resources, I strive to empower aspiring entrepreneurs to navigate the complexities of starting and growing a business,” she said. “I enjoy highlighting the potential rewards of entrepreneurship, including autonomy, flexibility and the opportunity to make a positive impact on society.”
