Citizens Bank promotes Karen Shaw to chief risk officer

Citizens Bank, headquartered in Batesville, has announced the promotion of Karen Shaw to the position of chief risk officer. Formerly serving as chief financial officer for ten years, Shaw brings a wealth of experience and audit expertise to the new role.

“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.”

Shaw’s primary responsibility in this role will be identifying and assessing significant competitive, regulatory and technological threats to the Bank. 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 to act 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.

“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.”

With a strong educational background including earning a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, Certified Public Accountant designation, and receiving Highest Honors in Accounting from the University of Central Arkansas, as well as many distinguished professional achievements including being named Arkansas Business CFO of the Year in 2021, Shaw is well-equipped for this critical position.

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, 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.