Kansas City Welcomes Molly Kerr’s Return to Banking
Kansas City has become the buzzing backdrop for a new chapter in the life of Molly Kerr, a familiar name in the banking scene. After spending a year honing her skills at BOK Financial in Tulsa, Kerr is back in the Kansas City area, this time as the new director of private wealth markets at Simmons Bank.
A Rich Background in Banking
Molly Kerr isn’t just stepping into her new role with a cup of coffee and a smile; she brings over 30 years of banking experience to the table. Throughout her career, she has made significant strides in the financial sector, especially in private banking. Her journey includes an impressive 11-year run as the Kansas City private wealth market executive for BOK Financial from 2011 to 2022. She also had a brief stint as the interim market president during a transitional phase.
Before her time at BOK, Molly spent four years at UMB Bank and over eight years at Bank of America. It’s no wonder that she was recognized in the Kansas City Business Journal’s 20 to Know in Banking in 2021, highlighting her influence and expertise in the field.
New Adventures Ahead
Now, back at Simmons Bank—headquartered in Pine Bluff, Arkansas—Molly’s focus will be on expanding the bank’s private wealth business in Kansas City as well as in Springfield, Missouri. While she may call Springfield home—thanks to her marriage to the chancellor of a local college—Kerr plans to spend adequate time working in Kansas City, a city she knows like the back of her hand.
The Job at Simmons Bank
In her new director role, Kerr is excited about the opportunities that are unfolding. Simmons Bank is enthusiastic about deepening its roots in Kansas City, especially in the private wealth sector, which targets high-net-worth clientele with specialized financial needs. With Molly’s wealth of experience and established relationships in the area, she is well-poised for this challenge.
A Commitment Beyond Banking
But it’s not just about numbers and profits for Kerr. Her passion extends beyond banking into community service. She currently serves as the president of the Alumni Governing Board for the University of Missouri-Kansas City and is a board member for the UMKC Foundation. Moreover, her role as chair for HappyBottoms, the only diaper bank in the Kansas City area, shows her deep commitment to giving back to the community.
Educational Background and Achievements
Molly’s educational credentials are equally impressive. She earned her bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Oklahoma in 1987, and later achieved an MBA from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 1991. Additionally, she holds the respectable title of Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), emphasizing her expertise in investment and wealth management.
Looking Forward
With her strong track record and community-focused mindset, Molly Kerr is set to make a significant impact in her new role at Simmons Bank. The Kansas City area can look forward to seeing how she will shape the future of private banking as she reconnects with old acquaintances and cultivates new relationships in the financial sector. As Molly takes on this exciting venture, the residents of Kansas City are sure to see a positive influence in their banking experience.
