Independence Bank, one of the fastest-growing banks in Kentucky and the fifth largest, is expanding to Lexington.
Leading the Lexington market is Stacy Schanher Berge. With more than 20 years of banking and business management experience, Berge has an extensive background in monitoring financial performance and meeting treasury client needs.
“I am honored to lead within an organization that embraces my values of community engagement, an extraordinary client focus, and compassionate care for our employees,” Berge said. “Independence Bank feels like home.”
The financial institution brings a model of customer service and keeps community involvement at its core. Last year, it gave back more than $1.2 million to various charitable causes throughout the footprint to ensure basic needs were met.
Independence Bank primarily served the western part of Kentucky when it was founded in 1909, but has gradually expanded into central Kentucky. Independence Bank was recently voted Frankfort’s Favorite Bank after serving the state’s capital since April of 2015. Louisville emerged as its 12th Commonwealth market the following year.
“Lexington is a place I, personally, love,” said Chris Reid, Independence Bank Chairman and CEO. “Five of my siblings attended the University of Kentucky. I have fond memories and have built lifelong friendships from many visits through the years. I am excited to know that new ones will be created.”
Additionally, Independence Bank invests in its employees. For 13 years, it has been ranked a “Best Place to Work” in Kentucky. This expansion comes amid American Banker Magazine listing Independence Bank among the “Best Banks to Work For” across the nation.
“We hire the best people— it’s to our advantage to tap into their experiences and expertise to make ourselves better,” Reid said. “You can bet on that.”
