Jeff Teague
Chairman & CEO, Citizens Bank
BEST CAREER MOMENT SO FAR
Upon graduation, I applied to a Little Rock investment firm, but the rejection letter was very pithy. I refocused and moved in a direction where my talents could best be deployed as a true entrepreneur. I never looked back.
WHAT KEEPS ME COMING BACK TO MY JOB EVERY DAY
I enjoy watching our people grow in their knowledge and maturity of banking and relationships, both with each other and with customers. I’m gratified to see our people fulfilling our “people first” mission.
A SKILL I NEVER EXPECTED TO USE IN THIS FIELD
I developed patience over the years, which is a challenge for most. I learned never to interrupt someone who is upset. Eventually, they will calm down and listen. Until then, give them your ear, your attention and your action.
ONE THING I WISH PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT MY COMPANY
J.K. Southerland founded Citizens Bank in 1953 after being rejected for a loan. That day, he vowed to help regular citizens if he ever earned his own success. Forty years after his death, people still share stories of his generosity.
IN THE DETAILS:
Hometown: Dumas
Favorite Local Purchase: Ice cream at Scoops on Broadway
Little Rock’s Hidden Gem: Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (not hidden, but renovated)
Sunday Routine: Bible study and worship at our church in the morning and relaxing in the afternoon
Favorite Local Dish: Breakfast at Capital Hotel’s One Eleven
Hobbies: Being with the family, occasionally hunting and fly fishing in the mountains
thecitizensbank.net
655 St. Louis St., Batesville