With over 20 years of experience across a broad spectrum of legal, regulatory, and political issues, Jared Craighead serves as Vista Bank’s Chief of Staff and Director of Strategic Initiatives. He works closely with the CEO and Board of Directors in planning and achieving strategic enterprise initiatives, including talent acquisition, footprint expansion, mergers and acquisitions, capital raises, and state and federal regulatory matters.

Overseeing Vista’s Main Street Lending Program, Craighead elevated the Bank’s portfolio and reputation, earning Vista the distinction of the top Main Street lender in Texas and the second leading lender in the country. Since joining Vista Bank in June 2020, the institution has grown from $1.1 billion to $1.9 billion.

An Eagle Scout with an outstanding reputation for his clarity, energy, and attention to detail, Craighead moved to Vista Bank after serving as Chief of Staff and General Counsel at the Texas Railroad Commission, which, despite its name, regulates Texas’ vital oil and gas industry.

Mr. Craighead is a Baylor University undergraduate who earned his MBA from American University and his JD from George Mason University. He is a member of both the Texas and Missouri Bar Associations.