Bank On It: Keaton Beasley, Assistant Financial Center Manager
By Arkansas NEXT: Money on Thursday, March 20, 2025
Keaton Beasley
Assistant Financial Center Manager, Simmons Bank
Age: 28 | Hometown: Hope | Alma Mater: Hope High School
Keaton Beasley never set out to work in banking because he believed you had to be good at math to make it in the industry. He took a leap of faith to join the industry and hasn’t looked back.
Keaton began his journey in banking because of the need for financial literacy everywhere he looked—especially in lower-level income communities.
“Being from a small city where financial literacy was never taught growing up, I knew I had to do something to make a difference,” Keaton said.
He was surprised by how quickly his financial guidance affected others. Whether developing a business deal or teaching a financial literacy class, Keaton has been approached by several people who thank him for clear and positive financial advice they can understand.
“You must have a knack for patience and understanding,” Keaton said about his job. “Discussing finance with individuals can be a sensitive and sometimes frustrating subject for people. You have to understand where the customer is coming from to find the best financial solution for them.”
Keaton credits his mentors for his success as assistant financial center manager at Simmons Bank. He’s also successfully climbed the ladder without needing a college degree!
“Before getting into the industry, I did not have a financial role model or mentor,” he said. “I continuously come across people who take me under their wing, and I am grateful [to] my colleagues at Simmons Bank for their guidance.”
Let's Talk Money
First bank account?
“A savings account … around 14 years old.”
Best money decision?
“...Opening a secured credit card. Understanding the importance of making your money work for you versus working against it (using your debit card for expenses versus a secured credit card) can make a big difference in the progression of a credit score.”
Go-to advice?
“Start disciplining yourself in saving money and establishing credit as early as possible. The sooner you can understand fiscal responsibility the better.”