BANKER Q&A
THE
MILLENNIAL MINUTE with Duncan Bellingrath Community Banker Simmons Bank, Pine Bluff, AR
WHY ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE EMERGING LEADERS SECTION? I first attended the Emerging Leaders Conference three years ago and had a great experience. The Emerging Leaders Section is a great resource for young bankers to network and learn more about the different areas in the banking industry. I have been able to connect with other banking professionals and have developed great friendships through Emerging Leaders. I would encourage all young bankers to join.
HOW DO YOU CONTINUE TO DEVELOP AS A BANKER AND LEADER? My Simmons Bank family and customers deserve the credit for my continued development as a banker. I believe the ability to work as a team has been the primary driver of my development as a banker. There is always room for improvement and asking the people you report to and work with to help identify your strengths and weaknesses ensures strong development as a banker, as a potential future leader, and as a person.
WHAT CIVIC PROJECT HAS YOUR BANK PARTICIPATED IN THAT TOUCHED YOU THE MOST? I am proud to work for such a philanthropic institution like Simmons Bank. Simmons Bank is involved in its communities and donates to countless philanthropic efforts and organizations. Recently Simmons Bank associates raised more than $13,000 to support the fight against Alzhimer’s disease. As a result of this, Simmons Bank pledged an additional $25,000 to the cause. Having lost my grandfather to this disease, this particular project hit home for me.
IF YOU COULD INVITE ANYONE OVER FOR DINNER, WHO WOULD YOU INVITE? WHAT WOULD YOU COOK? I would grill a steak with my dad. My dad and I have always had a close relationship but have grown closer since I began my career at Simmons Bank. My dad serves as a role model, a great business mentor, and friend.
“There is always room for improvement and asking the people you report to and work with to help identify your strengths and weaknesses ensures strong development as a banker, as a potential future leader, and as a person.” 16
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SPRING 2021
