Joanna Clayton Named to Birmingham Business Journal Top 40 Under 40

Regions Bank HR executive recognized for leadership and business impact

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Joanna Clayton, executive vice president and human resources business partner at Regions Bank, has been named to the Birmingham Business Journal's Top 40 Under 40 class of 2026. Clayton has built a career defined by steady advancement, trusted leadership and meaningful business impact, supporting more than 2,800 associates in Regions' Corporate Banking Group.

Why it matters

The Birmingham Business Journal's Top 40 Under 40 honors rising business leaders under age 40 who are shaping the local business community. Clayton's recognition highlights Regions Bank's commitment to developing top talent and the impact HR leaders can have on driving business strategy and supporting associates.

The details

After beginning her career in audit at Ernst & Young, Clayton joined Regions Bank in 2011 through the management associate program. She has since progressed through senior HR leadership roles, and was promoted to executive vice president in 2024 to lead strategic HR for Regions' Corporate Banking Group. Clayton has helped create pathways for associates to advance from within the organization while attracting experienced external talent. She also designed a first-of-its-kind talent assessment framework to support future-focused development across the business.

  • Joanna Clayton joined Regions Bank in 2011.
  • Clayton was promoted to executive vice president in 2024.
  • The Birmingham Business Journal announced its Top 40 Under 40 class of 2026 in February 2026.

The players

Joanna Clayton

Executive vice president and human resources business partner at Regions Bank, serving as HR strategic delivery leader for the company's Corporate Banking Group.

Ashley Garrison

Head of human resources strategic delivery and talent management at Regions Bank.

Birmingham Business Journal

A local business publication that annually recognizes the Top 40 Under 40 business leaders in the Birmingham, Alabama area.

Regions Bank

A regional bank headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama that provides consumer and commercial banking, wealth management, and mortgage products and services.

Better Basics

A nonprofit organization advancing literacy and educational opportunities for children across Central Alabama.

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What they’re saying

“Joanna has a remarkable gift for bringing clarity to even the most complex challenges, and she does it with such humility and heart.”

— Ashley Garrison, Head of human resources strategic delivery and talent management (Regions Bank)

“The moments I'm most proud of are often the ones no one else sees. I feel most accomplished when I'm helping others grow — advising leaders through complex challenges, connecting dots to find solutions or investing in someone's development so they can reach their full potential. These moments don't come with fanfare, but the ripple effect is meaningful. When we lead well, we create impact that reaches associates, clients and communities — and I'm grateful to play even a small part in that.”

— Joanna Clayton (doingmoretoday.com)

What’s next

Joanna Clayton will be honored at the Birmingham Business Journal's Top 40 Under 40 awards ceremony on March 15, 2026.

The takeaway

Joanna Clayton's recognition as a Birmingham Business Journal Top 40 Under 40 honoree highlights the important role HR leaders can play in driving business strategy and supporting talent development, even in complex environments. Her career journey at Regions Bank demonstrates how empowering associates and creating pathways for growth can lead to meaningful business impact.