Here’s a captivating introduction for an article about “Business people – Arkansas Online” for Morningpicker: “Arkansas, the Natural State, is bustling with entrepreneurs, innovators, and trailblazers who are shaping the future of the region’s economy. From Little Rock to Fayetteville, and beyond, the state is home to a vibrant community of business leaders who are driving growth, creating jobs, and making a lasting impact. And now, we’re shining the spotlight on some of the most inspiring and influential individuals in Arkansas’ business landscape. In this special feature, we’ll be highlighting the remarkable stories of ‘Business People – Arkansas Online’, a dynamic group of innovators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who are rewriting the rules of success in the Natural State. From game-changing startups to established industry giants, we’ll be diving into the remarkable journeys of these visionaries, exploring the challenges they’ve overcome, and celebrating their achievements. So, join us on this journey as we celebrate the best of
Executive Moves
The Arkansas State Bank Department has announced several promotions within the organization. Bob Henry has been promoted to assistant deputy commissioner, effective November 4, 2019, while Raychel Pendergist has been promoted to bank exam manager for a Little Rock group manager position. Additionally, Peyton Tillman has been hired as a bank examiner for the Jonesboro regional office, Katie Potter has been hired as a bank examiner for the Jonesboro regional office, and Aaron Lockwood has been hired as a bank examiner for the Little Rock office.
The Stephens Group LLC has also announced the addition of Allie Laborde as principal of business development. Most recently, she served as a vice president at The Halifax Group, a Washington, D.C.-based private equity firm.
Stacy James has been promoted to lead executive of Enterprise Data Management and Business Solution Center for Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
Promotions
- Bob Henry: Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Arkansas State Bank Department
- Raychel Pendergist: Bank Exam Manager, Arkansas State Bank Department
- Peyton Tillman: Bank Examiner, Jonesboro Regional Office, Arkansas State Bank Department
- Katie Potter: Bank Examiner, Jonesboro Regional Office, Arkansas State Bank Department
- Aaron Lockwood: Bank Examiner, Little Rock Office, Arkansas State Bank Department
- Allie Laborde: Principal of Business Development, The Stephens Group LLC
- Stacy James: Lead Executive, Enterprise Data Management and Business Solution Center, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Stacy James: Promoted to Lead Executive, Enterprise Data Management and Business Solution Center, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield
New Hires
Leadership Changes
Supply Chain Management
Supply chain management has emerged as a critical business function, with a shortage of qualified talent reported by about 75% of businesses. This shortage has created career opportunities for supply chain management graduates in today’s competitive marketplace.
The Sam M. Walton College of Business is in a unique position to meet these demands and invest in the supply chain leaders of tomorrow with an SCM degree. To foster the end-to-end mindset necessary to be successful, the Walton College offers courses that teach students how to balance competing priorities and optimize the “whole”. Our courses taught by some of the best supply chain faculty in the nation are designed to enable supply chain talent.
An SCM business degree means students graduate with a deep understanding of supply chain management and the ability to make positive contributions to the business.
Why Supply Chain Management as a Business Administration Degree?
- Shortage of qualified talent in supply chain management
- Walton College’s SCM degree and its benefits
- Gartner’s ranking of Walton College’s SCM program
- Industry value, program scope, and program size
- Flexibility for working professionals
- Support services for online students
Why Walton College?
Why Supply Chain Management as an Online Degree?
Awards and Recognition
Bryden Youmans, CEO of Cureate, has been named a winner of this year’s Rock Stars of the Supply Chain award by the Food Logistics magazine. The award recognizes influential individuals in the industry whose achievements, hard work, and vision have shaped the global cold food supply chain.
Marilyn Youmans has been promoted to vice president of finance for Washington Regional. A Fayetteville native, Youmans has worked for Washington Regional for 47 years and previously held the title of executive director of finance.
D.J. Burrows, a certified public accountant, has been named vice president and chief accounting officer for Washington Regional. Burrows has served as Washington Regional’s controller since 2020. He is an Arkansas native and holds a master of business administration from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway.
Rock Stars of the Supply Chain Award
- Bryden Youmans: CEO, Cureate
- Marilyn Youmans: Vice President of Finance, Washington Regional
- D.J. Burrows: Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer, Washington Regional
Notable Achievements
New Hires and Promotions
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has announced the promotion of three ArkansasBlue Welcome Center supervisors to the role of manager. Brandy Karnes has been promoted to manager of the ArkansasBlue Welcome Center at 3501 Old Greenwood Road in Fort Smith. She has been with Arkansas Blue Cross for more than 19 years.
Candice Holt has been promoted to manager of the ArkansasBlue Welcome center located at 4602 W. Walnut St. in Rogers. Holt began her career at Arkansas Blue Cross more than eight years ago.
Niki Nickell has been promoted to lead operations as manager at the ArkansasBlue Welcome Center at 3013 N. College Ave. in Fayetteville.
Kelly Thompson-Davis, an advanced practice registered nurse/family medicine provider, recently joined the active medical staff of Northwest Health, practicing at Northwest Medical Plaza at Pinnacle, located at 2000 S. 42nd St., Suite 100, in Rogers.
Promotions
- Brandy Karnes: Manager, ArkansasBlue Welcome Center, Fort Smith
- Candice Holt: Manager, ArkansasBlue Welcome Center, Rogers
- Niki Nickell: Manager, ArkansasBlue Welcome Center, Fayetteville
- Kelly Thompson-Davis: APRN, Family Medicine Provider, Northwest Health
New Hires
Briefs
Candice Holt now serves as manager of the ArkansasBlue Welcome center located at 4602 W. Walnut St.in Rogers. Great Plains Transport expands by hiring a new first chief growth officer, Jacob Perry. Brandy Karnes now serves as manager of the ArkansasBlue Welcome Center at 3501 Old Greenwood Rd. in Fort Smith. Kelly Thompson-Davis, APRN, family medicine provider, has joined Northwest Health. Marilyn Youmans has been named vice president of finance for Washington Regional. Niki Nickell now leads operations as manager at the ArkansasBlue Welcome Center at 3013 N. College in Fayetteville.
For more information or to submit a brief, please email [email protected].
Conclusion
The Arkansas business landscape is a dynamic and evolving ecosystem, brimming with opportunity and challenges. From the rise of tech startups to the continued strength of traditional industries, the state is witnessing a fascinating transformation. As we’ve explored, the key drivers of this change include a growing talent pool, a supportive entrepreneurial environment, and a commitment to innovation. However, navigating this landscape requires adaptability, strategic foresight, and a willingness to embrace the evolving needs of a global marketplace. The success stories we’ve highlighted demonstrate that Arkansas businesses, both established and emerging, are poised to thrive. But the future belongs to those who can anticipate and respond to the trends shaping tomorrow. Embracing technology, fostering collaboration, and prioritizing sustainability will be crucial for continued growth. As Arkansas’s business community continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the state’s economy and its place on the national stage. The question is, are you ready to be a part of this exciting journey?