Bank Independent, headquartered in Sheffield, Ala., announced an important leadership transition in the greater Decatur market. David Mathews announced his retirement plans and Bob Thompson is tapped to guide growth as the Area President of Lawrence, Limestone and Morgan counties.

David Mathews, Bank Independent’s current Area President of Lawrence, Limestone and Morgan counties, announced his retirement plans recently

Current Area President David Mathews has served the Decatur community for over 16 years. Mathews has worked closely with the Bank to forecast future needs for this key market ahead of his planned retirement in December of 2023.

He will transition into the role of Senior Commercial Lender, Morgan County while providing support for his existing customer relationships. Mathews will continue to report directly to Rick Wardlaw, CEO of Bank Independent and assume a relationship advisory role to the organization.

“We are thankful for leaders like David Mathews with a thoughtful focus on the communities we serve,” said Rick Wardlaw, CEO of Bank Independent. “He has made a positive difference for his customers in Lawrence, Limestone, and Morgan counties and remains a valued leader at Bank Independent.”

Bob Thompson, who will take over as Bank Independent’s Area President of Lawrence, Limestone and Morgan counties

Bob Thompson has been named Area President for Lawrence, Limestone and Morgan counties. He joined Bank Independent in December of 2020 as City President over the Athens/Limestone County market. In his new role as Area President, Thompson will continue to report directly to Tim Singleton, the Eastern Region President and Senior Commercial Lender.

“Bob Thompson has established himself as a trusted leader,” continued Wardlaw. “He has grown successful relationships through his involvement in the community and business development efforts. We are confident he will continue to be a strong advocate for this vibrant business market.”

Thompson resides in Decatur and maintains deep ties with the local community. He is a business graduate of Athens State University and brings over 13 years of banking experience serving the communities of Huntsville, Athens, and Decatur. Thompson serves as board chairman for Huntsville Community Drumline and as a board member to the Limestone County Economic Development Association.

The combined efforts of both Mathews and Thompson to transition leadership will create an excellent road map for the future success of the Lawrence, Limestone, and Morgan counties market.