American Banker has released its 10th annual list of Best Banks to Work For. 90 institutions were recognized again in 2022. Independence Bank secured the 16th spot, improving seven spots from the prior year.

“I find that by valuing and listening to our employees, it gives them a voice to help drive direction and earns trust,” Independence Bank Chairman and CEO Chris Reid shared. “As a leader, I recognize that it’s not a destination we can achieve alone, so it’s important to ensure we are moving towards our vision together.”

Honorees are selected through two different surveys managed by the Best Companies Group. The first form measures employee satisfaction in eight different categories, including communication, happiness with role and relationship with supervisor.

The second survey examines the policies and employee benefits of each institution. This gives banks the chance to highlight some of the unique and popular perks offered.

“It can take more than just top-notch pay to recruit and retain talent,” the American Banker Association wrote. “Employees are also looking for an opportunity for career advancement, a welcoming workplace environment and strong leadership.”

Simone Montaven, the Bank’s Human Resources Director, believes enhanced training, monitoring the ever-changing marketplace with salary and benefits, plus maintaining a healthy work-life balance partially played a part in the improved placement.

The western Kentucky based Bank expanded its footprint to Fayette, Logan and Shelby Counties since last November and opened a second Louisville location. Its Here For Good campaign launched one year ago, which alludes to its permanent longevity while looking for ways to promote the positive. In 2021, the Bank donated roughly $1.2 million dollars to various projects, programs and invested in important initiatives, which include meeting basic needs and scholarships for area students.

“My grandfather, Charles A. Reid, envisioned a Bank that would elevate the quality of life in the areas we serve,” President Jacob Reid reflected. “The care that we show for our communities mirrors the passion we have for our people. As our footprint widens, our Bank family also grows. We invite others to come along to make a greater impact.”

Independence Bank currently employs 470 people. This is the eighth consecutive year it has received this recognition from American Banker.

American Banker Best Banks to Work For Full List

Independence Bank is a regional community bank with 29 locations in Calloway, Daviess, Fayette, Franklin, Graves, Hancock, Henderson, Hopkins, Jefferson, Logan, McCracken, McLean, Shelby, Warren and Webster counties. One of the fastest growing banks in Kentucky and fifth largest, Independence Bank possesses the size and experience to serve the largest and most complex clients and offers trust and investment services and agricultural services. As a banking revolution for the people, by the people, central to Independence Bank’s mission is doing what is right and fair for customers, communities and employees. Independence Bank has been recognized in multiple categories by the American Bankers Association, including being named a Top Performing Bank and Best Bank to Work For, for 14 consecutive years, a Best Place to Work in Kentucky for 12 years and has assets totaling $3.4 billion.