Derrick Smith has been named managing director of Little Rock’s Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard law firm. The appointment became effective Jan. 1.
He succeeds Jeff Thomas, who has served in the role since 2020.
“It is truly an honor to be appointed as Mitchell Williams’ next managing director,” Smith said in a press release. “I look forward to supporting and serving our talented, dedicated, and diverse collection of professionals as they continue to advance the support of the goals of our incredible clients and contribute to our wonderful communities. Our firm is forever grateful to Jeff for his contributions to the firm as managing director, particularly during the pandemic for which there was no pre-set strategy. He did a truly remarkable job leading our firm through unprecedented times and positioning us for continued success. We are especially grateful that he will continue to represent clients as a partner in our national insurance-regulatory practice.”
Smith joined Mitchell Williams in 2000 and has held leadership roles in the firm, including chair of the Regulated Business Practice Group and as a member of the board of directors. Smith’s legal practice centers on insurance regulatory law and government relations, where he helps national and regional insurance and business clients navigate regulatory and government challenges to achieve their goals. Recognized for his expertise in insurance regulatory law, Smith guides clients through governmental processes, working effectively with regulators and officials at both the local and state levels.
In 2026, Smith was recognized by The Best Lawyers in America© as “Lawyer of the Year” in the Government Relations practice in Arkansas. He has also been recognized as The Best Lawyers in America© in Insurance Law, Administrative/Regulatory Law and Government Relations.
Smith earned his Juris Doctor with honors from the University of Arkansas Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from Hendrix College.
“Derrick’s 25 years of dedicated legal service with our firm, including his leadership as chair of our Regulated Business Practice Group and valued contributions on our board of directors, make him the ideal choice to guide us forward,” Thomas. “The board and I have full confidence that Derrick’s experience and commitment will continue to strengthen our firm’s legacy and ensure our future success.”
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