President, First Financial Bankshares, Inc.
David Bailey learned early the values that would shape his career in banking: faith, family, and service to community. As the son of two educators, one of whom had previously served as a funeral director, David absorbed these principles in the small town of Clyde, Texas, where he spent his entire childhood.
This rural upbringing led Bailey to McMurry University on a physics scholarship, though he would eventually find his calling in finance. The catalyst? A memorable experience getting his first car loan at age 15 from People’s State Bank in Clyde, now part of First Financial Bank. The loan officer – who would end up working side-by-side with Bailey in the future – made a profound impact on him and his career path.
David met his wife Ashley at McMurry University and knew quickly they would build a life together centered on the values instilled in them through their West Texas upbringings. Inspired by their parents, they built a life centered around family values. Both are committed to their church and community service and have passed that dedication to their two children.
Bailey’s journey to First Financial Bank wasn’t immediate – it took nine applications before he landed his first position as a teller while still in college. From there, he worked his way through various roles: Personal Banker, Credit Analyst, Loan Review Analyst, Commercial Lender, Regional President, and most recently, Chief Banking Officer.
"Every time I think about my success, I think about the people that have supported and sacrificed for me," David reflects, "starting with my parents, who instilled in me from an early age the value of personal relationships, service to our community, and graciousness towards everyone; my journey in life has been guided by the wisdom of those who support me."
Due to his passion for education and music, Bailey serves as a board member for both McMurry University and for the Abilene Philharmonic. He is an avid pianist, playing since the age of six, and has performed in multiple local theatre productions. Music remains a constant in David’s life, serving as both escape and meditation. "Whether it’s in self-reflection, or whether it’s in prayer, it’s always done behind the piano or listening to music. That’s where I can truly find rest," he says.
As he steps into his new role as President of First Financial Bankshares, Bailey emphasizes the importance of continuing First Financial’s legacy of community banking. "Our bank is only as good as the communities we serve," he notes. "It’s our duty to be good stewards of the resources that our company has been given to better serve our customers."
For David, success isn’t measured in traditional banking metrics alone. "They’re going to remember the numbers we produce as a bank, but they’re also going to remember how many people we helped while we produced those numbers," he says. "Service is the measure of a life well lived."
This philosophy of service-oriented leadership, grounded in faith and family values, will guide Bailey as he leads First Financial Bankshares into its next chapter. "All we can do is continue to build upon the great foundation of our company," he says, "working every day to improve the lives of our customers, shareholders, employees, and communities."