Little Rock, Ark. – Simmons Bank (Simmons) announced today that Ann Madea has been named executive vice president and chief information officer (CIO) as part of a planned transition announced late last year. As CIO, Madea is responsible for the bank’s overall information technology strategy and operations and spearheading the systems integration of acquired banks.
Madea joined Simmons in October of 2021 and, over the past several months, has been working closely with former CIO, Paul Kanneman, while transitioning into her new position. As previously announced, Kanneman will continue with the bank utilizing his technology and business strategy expertise in a role focused on strategic research associated with the identification, review and assessment of emerging technologies, while also lending his experience on future M&A activities.
“Ann and Paul have done a tremendous job working together to ensure a smooth transition,” said George A. Makris, Jr., chairman and CEO of Simmons. “Utilizing their shared experiences and expertise further enhanced our ability to simultaneously complete the systems conversions of Landmark Community Bank and Triumph Bank over the same weekend. As Ann takes the reins, I am confident in her ability to continue building out our leading-edge technology capabilities while also preparing for the pending conversion of Spirit of Texas, Bancshares, Inc. later this year.”
A seasoned veteran, Madea has over 25 years of technology experience, including the last 17 years at HSBC, one of the largest banking and financial services organizations in the world with operations in 64 countries and territories. During her career at HSBC, Madea served in a variety of leadership positions with increased responsibility, including the last four years as executive vice president and CIO U.S. Her primary focus centered on strategy innovation, strong global delivery, M&A, operations and leading technology and business transformation while driving results that differentiate customer experience and business enablement, while giving back to the community.
“Paul did a remarkable job navigating a rapidly changing technology environment in the financial services industry and enhancing our technology capabilities,” said Makris. “We’re very pleased that he will continue to contribute his knowledge and insight as it relates to emerging technologies with potential benefit to the bank. His new role will also provide him time to address a significant, long-term family medical challenge.
Kanneman began working with Simmons in 2014 as an advisor while at Grant Thornton, LLP. In 2016, he assisted the bank with developing its first five-year technology roadmap. After retiring from Grant Thornton, Kanneman joined Simmons in 2017 as executive vice president and CIO.
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About Simmons Bank
Simmons Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary of Simmons First National Corporation (NASDAQ: SFNC), a Mid-South based financial holding company. Simmons Bank operates 199 financial centers in Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas. Founded in 1903, Simmons Bank offers comprehensive financial solutions delivered with a client-centric approach. Simmons Bank was named to Forbes’ list of “World’s Best Banks” for the second consecutive year and ranked among the top 30 banks in Forbes’ list of “America’s Best Banks” for 2021. Additional information about Simmons and Simmons Bank can be found on our website at simmonsbank.com, by following @Simmons_Bank on Twitter or by visiting our newsroom.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
ASHLEY LEOPOULOS
Simmons Bank
Public Relations Manager
ashley.leopoulos@simmonsbank.com
501.413.7055 (mobile)