Brad Eichler Named Next COO at Stephens

Brad Eichler, who has been named chief operating officer of Stephens Inc. of Little Rock

Stephens Inc. of Little Rock on Monday announced that Brad Eichler will succeed Curt Bradbury as chief operating officer, effective May 1.

Bradbury has held the position since 1995. He’ll move to a role as vice chairman and remain on the company’s board, offering guidance on strategic plans, regulatory matters and other industry issues.

In a news release, CEO Warren Stephens said the leadership change reflects the company’s long-term growth plans. He called Eichler a “proven leader” and said there is “no one better positioned to succeed Curt as we grow, compete and distinguish Stephens in the market.” 

Bradbury is among the inductees of the 2023 Arkansas Business Hall of Fame.

“For more than 50 years,” Stephens said, “Curt has been integral to Stephens’ success and commitment to excellence. Stephens collectively, and I personally, thank Curt for his vision, leadership and friendship within our firm and beyond.” 

Eichler is a 30-year veteran of Stephens and has led the financial services firm’s investment banking practice since 2015. During his time in the investment banking practice, it has grown into a global entity with 250 employees across the U.S., London and Frankfurt, covering more than six industries comprising 18 focused sub-verticals.

Eichler’s previous roles at Stephens include director of research and co-head of investment banking. He was an Arkansas Business 40 Under 40 honoree in 2000.

“Following a legend is never easy,” Eichler said, “but Curt has made this transition as seamless as possible. I have worked for Curt, and with Curt, for more than 28 years and cannot say enough about his wisdom, insight and financial acumen. The firm has accomplished so much in the past 90 years, I am very excited about the future.”

Stephens has picked Matthew Marks to follow Eichler as head of investment banking. That move is also effective May 1.

Marks currently leads Stephens’ investment banking dealership practice, focusing on transaction advisory work. He joined Stephens in 2002, and has since completed more than 60 transactions.

Marks serves on the board of Vanguard Truck Centers, a Class 8 truck dealership group owned by Stephens Capital Partners.