On April 24, Little Rock, Arkansas-based Bank OZK announced that John Carter has returned as chief credit officer. He will be responsible for oversight of the bank’s credit, loan operations, special assets and mortgage lending functions. In addition, Carter will participate in the development of corporate strategy for lending practices and policies.

Carter rejoins Bank OZK from Huffman and Co. where he served as chief investment officer responsible for strategic direction, growth, personnel and capital expenditures. A native Arkansan, he was named by Arkansas Business to its “40 Under 40” list and is a graduate of Leadership Greater Little Rock. Carter received his undergraduate degree in economics and finance from Arkansas Tech University and an MBA degree from the University of Arkansas. Since 2013, he has served as a board member of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas.

“We are so pleased to welcome John back to the Bank OZK team to once again lead our credit management practices,” says George Gleason, chairman and CEO. “He has a proven record, having risen through our ranks during his previous tenure with the bank…John was instrumental in the expansion of our community banking footprint throughout the Southeast. Given his deep understanding of our business and corporate culture, I know John will hit the ground running to deliver value to our team and clients.”

“During my previous 11-year tenure, I witnessed firsthand the drive, discipline and commitment to excellence that resulted in Bank OZK’s strong asset quality, impressive growth and repeated recognition as one of the top banks in the country,” Carter says.

Established in 1903, Bank OZK operates more than 240 offices in eight states: Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, Texas, New York, California and Mississippi and had $28.97 billion in total assets as of March 31.