Simmons Bank hires David Kennedy as Chief Technology Officer

Rhea-AI Summary

Simmons Bank (SFNC) has appointed David Kennedy as Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer. Kennedy brings over 25 years of experience in technology leadership and will oversee the bank's technology capabilities delivery and technical strategy. His responsibilities include managing innovation, infrastructure, cost reduction, and collaboration initiatives.

Prior to joining Simmons Bank, Kennedy served as EVP and CIO at a Southeastern regional bank, where he led corporate technology and innovation initiatives. He holds a computer science degree from Mississippi State University and completed additional education at Harvard Business School, The Pacific Institute, and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

Positive

• Appointment of an experienced technology leader with 25+ years in the field
• Strong background in systems architecture, vendor management, and infrastructure modernization
• Previous experience as CIO in a regional bank indicates relevant industry expertise

Negative

• None.

Seasoned technology veteran brings more than 25 years of experience

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. , May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Simmons Bank announced the addition of David Kennedy as executive vice president and chief technology officer. Kennedy will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of technology capabilities to all areas of the bank. He will also play a crucial role in Simmons' technical strategy, including innovation, infrastructure, cost reduction and collaboration to ensure that the technology efforts align with business success.

"David Kennedy joins us with a strong reputation for leading complex technology organizations and delivering impactful change," said Ann Madea, EVP Chief Information Officer. "As we accelerate our technology strategy and enhance the resilience and scalability of our platforms, David's deep understanding and leadership will be instrumental in shaping the next phase of our transformation."

Prior to joining Simmons Bank, Kennedy served as executive vice president and chief information officer at a Southeastern, regional bank where he led the direction of all corporate technology and innovation initiatives. His previous experience also includes systems architecture, vendor management and infrastructure modernization.

Kennedy holds a bachelor's degree in computer science from Mississippi State University. He also completed educational programs at The Pacific Institute, Harvard Business School, and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He serves as vice president of the board for Old Mountain Arboretum and is a former board member for Acadiana Animal Aid.

About Simmons Bank
Simmons Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary of Simmons First National Corporation (NASDAQ: SFNC), a Mid-South based financial holding company that has paid cash dividends for 116 consecutive years. Simmons Bank operates 222 branches in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas. Founded in 1903, Simmons Bank offers comprehensive financial solutions delivered with a client-centric approach. In 2024, Simmons Bank was recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Best Regional Banks 2025, by U.S. News & World Report as one of the 2024-2025 Best Companies to Work For in the South and by Forbes as one of America's Best-In-State Banks 2024 in Tennessee and America's Best-In-State Employers 2024 in Missouri. Additional information about Simmons Bank can be found on our website at simmonsbank.com, by following @Simmons_Bank on X (formerly Twitter) or by visiting our newsroom.

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SOURCE Simmons Bank

FAQ

Who is David Kennedy, the new CTO of Simmons Bank (SFNC)?

David Kennedy is an experienced technology executive with over 25 years of experience, previously serving as EVP and CIO at a Southeastern regional bank. He holds a computer science degree from Mississippi State University and will oversee Simmons Bank's technology capabilities and strategy.

What are David Kennedy's main responsibilities as CTO of Simmons Bank (SFNC)?

As CTO, Kennedy will oversee technology capabilities delivery, manage technical strategy, innovation, infrastructure, cost reduction, and ensure technology efforts align with business success.

What is David Kennedy's educational background and previous experience?

Kennedy holds a bachelor's in computer science from Mississippi State University, with additional education from Harvard Business School, The Pacific Institute, and University of Louisiana. He previously served as EVP and CIO at a Southeastern regional bank.

How will David Kennedy's appointment impact Simmons Bank's technology strategy?

Kennedy is expected to accelerate Simmons Bank's technology strategy, enhance platform resilience and scalability, and lead the next phase of the bank's digital transformation.