Forty Under 40: C. Jeremy Woody

Like a lot of college graduates, Jeremy Woody was unsure what to do next.

Fortunately, a friend of his offered some direction. Chad May, son of Simmons First National Corp. chair and CEO J. Thomas “Tommy” May, suggested to Woody there was a banking opportunity for him with the company in Pine Bluff.

The North Little Rock native pounced, starting in the loan review department. In the 14 years since, Woody has worn many hats while advancing through the organization.

Earlier this year, he earned a promotion to his current job, overseeing the day-to-day management of 10 loan officers, four assistants and a $136 million loan portfolio.

He made the move to Northwest Arkansas from central Arkansas in April 2003, two months after he and his wife had their first child.

Dennis Ferguson, president of Simmons First Bank of NWA, says the quality of people on staff within the company makes him most proud.

“Having a person with Jeremy’s characteristics supports that statement,” he said. “His attitude … will go a long way toward the success of this bank and the success of his career.”

Woody earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Arkansas in 1998, and graduated from the prestigious Graduate School of Banking at LSU in 2004.

Now a father of two, Woody is a board member of the United Way of NWA.