Citizens Bank promotes Karen Shaw to chief risk officer

Citizens Bank has announced the promotion of Karen Shaw to the position of chief risk officer.

Formerly serving as chief financial officer for ten years, Shaw (pictured) brings “…a wealth of experience and audit expertise to the new role,” the bank, headquartered in Batesville, said in a release announcing Shaw’s promotion.

“As chief risk officer, Karen will continue to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the bank’s interests and ensuring its continued success and ‘People First’ mission,” said Citizens Bank President and CEO Adam Mitchell. “Our leadership team trusts Karen’s expertise to identify risk and lead the development and implementation of mitigation initiatives in all areas throughout the bank. We are fortunate to have her in this new role.”

The bank said Shaw’s primary responsibility will be identifying and assessing significant competitive, regulatory, and technological threats. She will work with management to develop and implement policies, procedures, and internal controls to minimize internal and external operational risks to the bank.

Shaw will continue as an advisor to senior management, “…offering careful recommendations to reduce risk exposure in the areas of credit, operations, information technology, and asset liability management,” the release said.

“Citizens Bank has a strong foundation in risk management,” said Shaw. “I look forward to working with our outstanding team to continue to build and evolve the Bank’s infrastructure to protect the Bank, its customers, and the communities we serve.”

The release said Shaw has a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, a Certified Public Accountant designation, received highest honors in Accounting from the University of Central Arkansas, and was named Arkansas Business CFO of the Year in 2021.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Shaw actively contributes to various community initiatives, serving on the University of Central Arkansas College of Business Advisory Board, the Greater Arkansas American Red Cross Board, the University of Arkansas Community College of Batesville Foundation Board, and the Christmas Brings Hope Board, among others.

Shaw is a 2021 graduate of Leadership Arkansas Class XV. She is also a member of the Arkansas State Society of CPAs. Shaw and her husband, Edward, live in Batesville with their two children, Kayla and Collin.

Image provided by Citizens Bank