Memphis, February 3, 2026
First Horizon Bank has appointed Eric Teal as Chief Investment Officer of First Horizon Wealth Management. With over 30 years of investment management experience, Teal is set to lead the investment team, enhancing investment strategies for clients while supporting their financial objectives. His strong educational background and community involvement promise to bolster the bank’s commitment to client engagement and economic growth in Memphis and beyond.
First Horizon Bank Names Eric Teal CIO, Enhancing Memphis Wealth Management
New leadership promises to elevate investment strategies for clients in Memphis and beyond.
Memphis, Tennessee – First Horizon Bank has recently announced the appointment of Eric Teal as Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer (CIO) of First Horizon Wealth Management. This strategic move comes as part of the bank’s efforts to enhance its investment management capabilities and bolster client support in achieving their long-term financial goals. In his new role, Teal will lead the investment team, setting investment strategies, overseeing portfolio construction, and providing valuable market insights to clients.
Teal’s impressive track record spans over 30 years in investment management. Prior to this role, he served as CIO at Comerica, contributing as a key member of the wealth management senior leadership team. His extensive experience also includes holding positions as Managing Director and Investment Manager at U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management, as well as spending more than a decade as CIO at First Citizens Bank. Given this background, his appointment is poised to bring a wealth of expertise to First Horizon’s clients.
Expertise and Leadership
Martin de Laureal, the Head of Wealth Management and Private Banking for First Horizon, expressed enthusiasm over the addition of Teal to the team. His distinguished history is underscored by a disciplined investment approach and a genuine passion for client engagement. De Laureal believes that Teal’s experience will significantly enhance the wealth management team’s strategies, thereby empowering clients to plan with confidence for their financial futures.
Educational Background
Teal boasts an impressive educational foundation that fortifies his financial acumen. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics and International Studies from Rhodes College in Memphis, coupled with an MBA in Finance from the University of Memphis. Complementing his academic achievements, Teal has completed the International Economics and Trade Study Program at the prestigious London School of Economics. These credentials equip him well for navigating the complex landscape of investment management.
Community Engagement
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Teal is actively involved in community service. He currently serves as Treasurer of the PBS North Carolina Foundation Board and has previously held the position of Chairman of the PBS North Carolina Board of Trustees. This commitment to community service aligns with First Horizon’s values, emphasizing the importance of giving back and fostering growth within local communities.
First Horizon Corp. Overview
First Horizon Corp., the parent company of First Horizon Bank, reported assets of $83.9 billion as of December 31, 2025. Headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, the company extends its reach through its banking subsidiary across 12 states in the southern United States. With a comprehensive array of financial services that includes commercial, private banking, consumer, small business, wealth management, and trust services, First Horizon aims to support the financial aspirations of a diverse clientele.
Call to Action
As Eric Teal steps into this pivotal role, the Memphis community looks forward to the innovative strategies and insights he will bring to First Horizon Wealth Management. Engaging local clients with tailored investment strategies not only reflects the resilience of Memphis entrepreneurs but also highlights the potential for economic growth through private investment and community involvement. Readers are encouraged to stay engaged with local businesses and financial institutions that contribute positively to Memphis’s economic landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Eric Teal?
Eric Teal is the newly appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer of First Horizon Wealth Management, bringing over 30 years of experience in investment management.
What is First Horizon Wealth Management?
First Horizon Wealth Management is a division of First Horizon Bank that offers expertise in investment management, estate and financial planning, trust services, family office, and private banking.
What are First Horizon Corp.’s assets as of December 31, 2025?
As of December 31, 2025, First Horizon Corp. reported assets of $83.9 billion.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Appointment | Eric Teal appointed as Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer of First Horizon Wealth Management. |
| Experience | Over 30 years in investment management, including roles at Comerica, U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management, and First Citizens Bank. |
| Educational Background | Bachelor’s in Economics and International Studies from Rhodes College; MBA in Finance from the University of Memphis; International Economics and Trade Study Program at the London School of Economics. |
| Community Involvement | Treasurer of the PBS North Carolina Foundation Board; former Chairman of the PBS North Carolina Board of Trustees. |
| Company Overview | First Horizon Corp. reported assets of $83.9 billion as of December 31, 2025; operates in 12 states across the southern U.S., offering a range of financial services. |
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