Sophia Kearney-Lederman Receives Prestigious NEXT Award from American Banker

Recognition of Leadership in Banking

First Horizon Corp. (NYSE: FHN) has achieved a significant milestone with the recognition of its Senior Economist, Sophia Kearney-Lederman, as one of the recipients of the esteemed 2025 NEXT Award presented by American Banker. This accolade celebrates the rising female leaders in the banking and finance sector, specifically focusing on those under 40 who have showcased remarkable talent and dedication in their respective fields.

Sophia Kearney-Lederman has long been an integral part of the FHN Financial team, having joined the organization in 2014 as an Economic Analyst. Her journey within First Horizon marks a trail of consistent growth and excellence, leading her to her current position as Senior Economist, a role she has fulfilled since 2020. In her capacity, Kearney-Lederman not only shares insights through regular economic updates and presentations for First Horizon Bank but also integrates comprehensive analyses from Chief Economist Chris Low on macroeconomic trends and interest forecasts. This collaborative effort highlights the bank's commitment to delivering insightful economic education to clients and fellow professionals.

Bryan Jordan, the Chairman, President, and CEO of First Horizon, expressed immense pride in Kearney-Lederman's achievement, stating, "Sophia has a rare gift for making economics accessible and meaningful, consistently helping our clients, executives, and the next generation understand the economy in new ways." This statement underlines Kearney-Lederman's remarkable ability to distill complex economic concepts into valuable insights that resonate with a diverse audience.

As a recipient of the NEXT Award, Kearney-Lederman's leadership and forward-thinking vision in the finance industry have earned her the status among American Banker's Most Powerful Women in Banking. The award determination process entails a rigorous evaluation of candidates who not only demonstrate superior performance in their work but also contribute to encouraging diversity within the industry. Kearney-Lederman's recognition comes at a pivotal moment in an industry increasingly focusing on equity and inclusion, especially as women continue to make strides in historically male-dominated fields.

The official ceremony honoring the newly named NEXT Award recipients is set to take place during an event at the Glasshouse in New York City. This gathering is part of a larger conference series organized by American Banker, which includes a two-day Women in Banking Conference from October 21 to 22, alongside an exclusive gala event on October 23. These celebrations serve as platforms to highlight and foster dialogue around women's contributions to the banking sector and the necessary pace for future advancements.

With nearly $82.1 billion in assets as of June 30, 2025, First Horizon is recognized as a leading financial institution that prioritizes the potential of its clients, communities, and employees. The bank operates across 12 states, primarily in the southern United States, offering a myriad of services including commercial, private banking, and wealth management. The organization consistently ranks as one of the nation's top employers, recognized by Fortune and Forbes magazines for its commitment to employee welfare and customer service excellence.

As the landscape of banking continues to evolve, leaders like Sophia Kearney-Lederman exemplify the innovation and dedication necessary to navigate future challenges. Within the dynamic world of finance, her journey reflects not only personal achievement but also the collective progress of women in leadership roles within the industry. The acknowledgment of her contributions signals a brighter future for banking, where diverse voices are poised to lead transformative change.

In summary, Sophia Kearney-Lederman's noteworthy accomplishment through the NEXT Award is not merely a personal milestone; it illuminates the ongoing evolution of the financial services sector—one that embraces diversity, nurtures talent, and recognizes the essential roles both women and men play in shaping the industry's future.