Simmons First National Appoints Jodie Cochran to Enhance Mortgage Warehouse Lending

Simmons Bank Strengthens Mortgage Warehouse Lending with New Appointment

Simmons Bank appoints Jodie Cochran as the national sales and production manager for its mortgage warehouse lending division, a strategic move aimed at enhancing client acquisition and expanding the bank's footprint in the mortgage banking sector. With nearly 25 years of extensive industry experience, Cochran is well-positioned to drive growth initiatives and bolster referral sources. David Frase, president of warehouse lending at Simmons Bank, underscores Cochran’s valuable experience and leadership, noting her past contributions to the bank's service offerings and client relationships that have positioned Simmons Bank for future success.

Cochran’s background includes significant roles in correspondent sales at major money center banks, as well as experience in retail, wholesale, and warehouse lending. Her diverse skill set will be instrumental as she focuses on department marketing and client outreach. With degrees from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and multiple professional designations—including Accredited Mortgage Professional (AMP), Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB), and Certified Mortgage Leader (CML)—Cochran brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. Furthermore, her participation in the National Mortgage Bankers Association's Future Leaders Program and her recognition with the Willis Bryant Award highlight her commitment to excellence and leadership within the industry.

In addition to her impressive credentials, Cochran's leadership experience as the president of the Texas Mortgage Bankers Association marks a significant milestone, as she becomes only the sixth woman to lead this organization since its inception in 1917. Her appointment signals Simmons Bank's commitment to diversity and inclusivity in leadership roles, which is increasingly important in today's financial landscape. As Simmons Bank continues to expand its operations across multiple states, including Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas, Cochran’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing the bank's competitive edge in the mortgage warehouse lending market.

Simmons Bank, a subsidiary of Simmons First National Corporation, operates over 220 branches and has a long-standing reputation for financial stability, maintaining cash dividends for 116 consecutive years. Recently, the bank is recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Regional Banks for 2025, further solidifying its position in the financial services industry. With Cochran at the helm of mortgage warehouse lending, the bank is poised for continued growth and innovation in the coming years.