The Memphis Business Journal reported that David Popwell, a seasoned executive at First Horizon, based in Memphis, plans to retire at the end of 2025, marking the conclusion of nearly two decades with the financial institution. Currently, he holds the position of senior executive vice president and senior strategic executive, having previously served as the president of specialty banking until October 2024.
Popwell joined First Horizon in 2007 to manage its Memphis banking operations, arriving just a month after Bryan Jordan was appointed chief financial officer. Jordan currently serves as chairman, president, and CEO of the company. Prior to his role at First Horizon, Popwell held several leadership positions, including chairman, president, and CEO of SunTrust Memphis, executive vice president at National Commerce Financial Corp., and was a partner in charge of mergers and acquisitions at the law firm Baker Donelson.
Throughout his tenure, Popwell has consistently ranked among First Horizon’s highest-paid executives. According to the company’s most recent proxy filing, he earned nearly $3 million in total compensation in 2024, which included a base salary of $725,000 and $1.396 million in stock awards. As of January 31, 2025, he owned 485,040 shares of First Horizon stock.
A graduate of Christian Brothers High School in Memphis, Popwell has been actively involved in the community, serving on various nonprofit boards, including as chair of the Regional One Health Foundation.
