Early Life and Education
Warren Amerine Stephens was born on February 18, 1957, in Little Rock, Arkansas. He is the son of Jackson T. “Jack” Stephens and Mary Amerine Stephens. Warren attended Trinity Presbyterian High School in Montgomery, Alabama, graduating in 1975. He then pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in economics from Washington and Lee University in 1979. He furthered his studies by obtaining an MBA from Wake Forest University in 1981.
Rise to Success
Stephens joined Stephens Inc., the family investment bank, in 1981 in the Corporate Finance Department. Stephens Inc. was founded in 1933 by W.R. “Witt” Stephens. Warren became President and CEO of Stephens Inc. in 1986, succeeding his father. In 2006, he acquired 100% of the outstanding shares of Stephens Inc. His leadership saw the firm grow, expanding into major U.S. markets and opening offices internationally. Under Stephens' leadership, Stephens Inc. has advised on over $180 billion in transactions since 2008.
Key Business Strategies
Stephens Inc. has remained a privately held company, allowing Stephens to focus on long-term strategies. The firm has maintained a modest leverage approach, enabling it to weather economic downturns. Stephens is known for his support of capitalism, frequently speaking on its role in creating jobs and stabilizing communities. The firm's mission is to be a trusted advisor to clients, focusing on client relationships.
Philanthropy
Stephens and his wife, Harriet, are active philanthropists, focusing on the arts, education, and healthcare. Stephens has served on various boards, including the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Foundation Board and the Episcopal Collegiate School Foundation Board. In addition, he has been a major contributor to Republican causes and campaigns.