Board Member, First Financial Bankshares, Inc.
With over three decades of experience at Goldman Sachs and a deep understanding of the banking industry, Sally Pope Davis brings a unique perspective to First Financial Bankshares’ Board of Directors. Her appointment in early 2024 follows a distinguished career at Goldman Sachs, where she most recently served as co-head of the firm’s small-cap value strategy within the asset management division.
"Sally’s extensive knowledge of the banking industry and her investor’s perspective on creating sustainable shareholder value make her an outstanding addition to our board," says Scott Dueser, CEO of First Financial Bankshares. "Her long-term familiarity with our Company and our commitment to excellence will help guide our future growth."
Sally’s relationship with First Financial began in 2006 when, as part of Goldman Sachs’ small-cap value team, she made one of her first investment decisions in the Company. "I was impressed with the quality focus of the Company, especially asset quality, its strong balance sheet with plenty of core equity capital, and strong reserves," Davis recalls. "It had an impressive stable deposit base, excellent profitability and returns, and a focused management team."
Her banking experience spans several economic cycles, beginning at Chase Manhattan Bank in corporate finance and capital planning. Throughout her career, she navigated numerous financial challenges, including the savings and loan crisis, multiple real estate downturns, the dot-com bubble, and the 2008 Global Financial Crisis.
After a decade as a sell-side analyst covering U.S. regional banks during the transformative 1990s, Sally joined Goldman Sachs Asset Management in 2001. Her investment philosophy emphasizes the importance of quality in management, balance sheets, cash flow, and returns – an approach that aligns perfectly with First Financial’s banking principles and commitment to customer service.
Looking ahead, Davis sees significant opportunities for First Financial in the state of Texas. "It is one of the most dynamic growth and business environments in the country and, therefore, the globe, and it is our backyard and our market," she notes.
Throughout her career, Sally has been guided by two core principles: treating others as you would like to be treated and always acting with integrity. These values were introduced by her mother, who became the sole household earner and single parent after being widowed at a relatively young age. This foundation has inspired Davis’ passion for education; for over 25 years, she and her husband have sponsored young women at an all-girls high school in New York City, helping them access quality education and college opportunities.
After spending decades in office environments, Sally finds balance through outdoor activities, particularly fly-fishing, which she values for its meditative qualities and connection to nature. A lifelong commitment to health and wellness keeps her active through swimming, cardio, and strength training.
As First Financial continues to navigate an evolving financial landscape, Sally emphasizes the importance of balancing technological innovation with personal relationships. "Banking is an amazingly competitive business, and technology continues to break down the barriers for new entrants," she observes. "As customer service, relationships, and the human touch are such differentiators, even in this age of automation and AI, they should always remain a high priority for First Financial."