Adam Mitchell exits Citizens Bank; Jeff Teague, Vernon Scott to lead

by Roby Brock ([email protected]) 739 views 

Batesville-based Citizens Bank announced Tuesday (June 25) that Board Chair Jeff Teague will serve as CEO, while veteran Vernon Scott will become the bank’s new president and chief lending officer.

Previous CEO Adam Mitchell resigned from the bank leading to the leadership changes and is exiting the company immediately.

“It is an honor to lead Citizens Bank in this new capacity,” said Teague. “I am confident in this leadership team and their ability to continue the bank’s trajectory of performance and service.”

Teague, a longtime board member of Citizens Bank and current board chairman, has experience not only in business leadership, but also with the bank. Founded by the grandfather of his wife, Sarah, more than 70 years ago, the family’s support has been steady.

Teague is a graduate of Ouachita Baptist University. He was the owner of Teague Auto Group for more than 31 years. Effective immediately, he will take on all responsibilities as CEO and continue to support the bank’s growth and operations.

Scott, chief lending officer at the bank, will take on the additional role of bank president. A Batesville native, Scott has been in the banking industry for 20 years. Scott will oversee the day-to-day operations of the bank.

Scott earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville.

“I am fully committed to my new role as bank President and have complete confidence in our leadership team and our associates,” Scott said. “It’s time to build on our legacy of growth, diversification and performance to elevate Citizens Bank to new heights.”

Mitchell was named Citizens Bank CEO in April 2021 when longtime CEO Phil Baldwin retired. Mitchell tells Talk Business & Politics he is taking some time off for family and exploring new options.

Citizens Bank was founded in 1953 and has assets exceeding $1.3 billion.