Career Moves

Sandra Olivarez, who lives and works in Northwest Arkansas, had never considered herself a writer.  She was used to taking complex topics and simplifying them into reports and presentations in her professional life, but she never felt ready to tell …

Signature Bank of Arkansas announced the addition of Kevin J. Kooman to the White River Bancshares board of directors. Kooman is a seasoned strategic advisor and former private equity partner and investment banking managing director with more than 30 years …

The Arkansas Broadcasters Association has named Leigh Ann Brannon its new executive director. She replaces legendary Arkansas broadcaster Neal Gladner, who is retiring upon conclusion of the association’s upcoming convention on Sept. 15. Brannon will assume her new role then. …

Ryan Miller has been named chief development officer for Achieve Community Alliance, formerly United Cerebral Palsy of Arkansas. “Like all nonprofits, Achieve Community Alliance faces unique challenges in today’s uncertain economic climate, and the need for community support is greater …

The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis has appointed Curtis Barnett and Suzanne Peyton to its industry councils. Barnett, president and CEO of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Little Rock, has been named to the Healthcare Industry Council. Peyton, …

Jimmy Anthony has been tabbed to serve as the next president of Delta Dental of Arkansas. He will take on his new duties, effective Jan. 1, 2027, replacing the retiring Kristin Merlo. Merlo will remain in an advisory role through …

Arkansas Surgical Hospital has added specialists Dr. Suzanne Abou-Diab and Dr. Iou-Ren Chang to its team. Abou-Diab is an interventional pain medicine physician. Chang is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in adult reconstruction and complex hip and knee revision surgery. …

Lisa Hunter, executive vice president and chief data officer at Simmons Bank, is retiring after 30 years of leading technology, operations and data capabilities, the bank announced. During her tenure, Hunter led the implementation of Simmons’ first corporate website and …

Daniel Kemper has been promoted to senior vice president and trust and wealth management officer at Batesville’s First Community Bank. In his new role, Kemper is responsible for providing and expanding trust and wealth management services throughout White, Faulkner, Lonoke, …

First Community Bank has promoted Tyler Choate to senior vice president, commercial lending. In this role, Choate will continue to grow the First Community Bank brand and franchise throughout the Little Rock market. “It is a blessing to work for …