Beyond a Banker - Landon Downing & The Jamestown Crag

ABOUT THE BANKER

 

If you went to college, where did you graduate?
Lyon College, English (Pre-Law) Major, Spanish Minor

How long have you been in banking?
Since January 2017

What is your official job title?
Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer

What SHOULD your job title be (if it was hilariously accurate to what you do every day)?
The Talker

How/Why did you get into the banking industry?
I love people and forming relationships. And as a banker, you have the opportunity to help a lot of individuals and engage in deep, meaningful conversations. Outside of one's health, a person's finances are a pretty personal topic. So, to be trusted in those conversations and be able to provide guidance and assistance is a very rewarding experience. 

What skill(s) do you use on the job that might surprise people?
Creating PowerPoint presentations! Perhaps I should have kept this skill a secret, but I am often trusted with putting together presentations - always be helpful and needed!

What do people assume about your role that isn't true?
An assumption people often have about my role is that it’s all about numbers and transactions. In reality, being a commercial loan officer is much more about relationships and community-building. While finance is central, my day-to-day involves understanding my clients’ goals, advising them on growth opportunities, and helping them succeed in ways that benefit the entire community. It’s a rewarding mix of financial strategy and genuine partnership, which is often overlooked when people think of banking.

What would you say to someone who doesn't think a banking career is for them?
You don't have to be passionate about finances or global economy - it sure helps - but if you have a passion for people and helping others, banking is such a rewarding profession. 

What show(s) are you currently binge-watching?
Kara and Nate - YouTubers who travel all over the world. Madelyn and I live vicariously through their experiences!

Where is your favorite (local) place to eat? What is your go-to order?
Tavolo's - Fillet Migon

What special/interesting skill do you have that others might not know about?
A unique skill I have that many might not know about is my training in cave rescue. Apart from land management at Jamestown, NOMADS is a cave rescue organization, I’ve had the opportunity to train extensively in underground rescue methods. This training has equipped me with skills like navigating complex cave systems, coordinating rescues in challenging conditions, and working closely with emergency response teams.

Over the years, I’ve been part of two official cave rescues in Arkansas, where our team safely assisted individuals in need. One particularly memorable experience was helping with a fugitive extraction in Blowing Cave, working alongside the Independence County Sheriff’s Department to locate and safely bring out a person wanted by the U.S. Marshals. It’s a skill set I’m proud of because it combines problem-solving, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure—qualities I strive to bring into my role as a banker as well.

What does Beyond A Banker mean to you?
“Beyond the Banker” to me means serving my community in ways that go far beyond traditional banking. It’s about being a partner, an advocate, and a neighbor. As a commercial loan officer, my job is certainly to help clients achieve their financial goals, but it’s also about understanding the people behind those goals—getting to know their stories, challenges, and dreams.

Beyond that, being actively involved in projects like the Jamestown Crag Foundation and local initiatives allows me to contribute to Batesville’s quality of life in a tangible way. Whether it’s working on environmental stewardship at Jamestown Crag, supporting local events, or volunteering on community boards, “Beyond the Banker” means I’m fully invested in the well-being and growth of our community. It’s about using my skills, experience, and time to make a meaningful impact that lasts beyond business hours.

ABOUT THE CRAG

  

How did you get involved with the Jamestown Crag? (KOC & Jamestown Crag Foundation)

I first got involved with Jamestown Crag back in 2013 when my friends, the Christopher brothers, purchased the property. We shared a passion for climbing and the outdoors, so I joined them in developing and managing The Crag. Together, as a group known as “The Nomads,” we dedicated ourselves to maintaining the property, establishing climbing routes, and creating a welcoming place for outdoor enthusiasts.



Over time, Jamestown Crag became a recognized climbing destination, drawing visitors from across the U.S. As our vision grew, we wanted to create a lasting impact, not just by preserving the land but by fostering a community centered around environmental stewardship and outdoor recreation. In 2024, with the support of the Christopher Brothers, I established the Jamestown Crag Foundation, a 501c3 organization, forming a strong board of others who share our passion. The foundation’s mission is to ensure sustainable access for future generations, and to create a place where people can disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature.

The “King of the Crag” climbing competition emerged from this vision. It’s a way to bring people together, celebrate climbing, and showcase The Crag as more than just a place—it’s a community hub. This event highlights everything we’ve worked to build, from the thrill of the outdoors to the camaraderie that makes Jamestown Crag so special. In October, we celebrated our 11th Annual King of the Crag, with over 250 people, 65 competitors, award winning beans, live music, tons of giveaways and more. It was awesome!


 
Why is what you're doing at The Crag important to the local community?
What we’re doing at Jamestown Crag is important to the local community because it provides a unique outdoor space that’s accessible, sustainable, and community-centered. In a time when people often feel overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, Jamestown Crag offers an escape—a place where outdoor enthusiasts can come to find peace, challenge themselves, and connect with nature.

Through the Jamestown Crag Foundation, we’re focused on more than just maintaining the land. We’re committed to environmental stewardship and ensuring The Crag remains a safe, preserved space for future generations. By hosting events like “King of the Crag,” we bring people together, supporting local tourism and driving economic activity for nearby businesses. It’s rewarding to see how Jamestown has become a gathering point for climbers from all over, reinforcing Independence County's identity as a vibrant, outdoor-oriented "Gateway to the Ozarks."

In the bigger picture, our work at the Crag represents a commitment to quality of life and the environment. By fostering a space that’s inclusive and respectful of nature, we’re giving back to the community and creating a legacy of conservation and connection.