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Noah Wilcox: Stay positive
To succeed in this environment, we must focus on the things we can control and remain positive, and that’s become my daily mantra.
Noah Wilcox: A year that defined community banks
It’s time to look toward the future, and I encourage you to hold onto this bigger-picture perspective to propel our communities out of this crisis.
Rebeca Romero Rainey: Developing innovation strategy
Community banks are independent institutions fueled by the needs of their individual communities, so what constitutes innovation will look and feel different for every bank.
How community banks are reaching the unbanked
Millions of Americans don’t have bank accounts. Their reasons are their own; some lack financial literacy, and others’ trust in the banking system has been eroded. But many community banks are...
Why succession planning is key to bank independence
Independence is at the heart of many community banks’ ethos, but how do community bankers embed this core value into their strategic planning? Here are three critical strategies that use succession...
40 Under 40: 2020’s Emerging Community Bank Leaders
Our second annual 40 Under 40: Emerging Community Bank Leaders competition uncovered some amazing talent. Meet our 2020 winners and hear their thoughts on the industry’s future.
ICBA’s best-performing community banks
Our annual list of the year’s top-performing community banks boasts institutions that focus on efficiency and the personal service that builds strong, lasting relationships. Their success last year...
How to build the board your bank needs
Board succession planning is important for all banks, but getting the right board members is crucial—and complicated—for larger banks. Here’s how several community banks approached the tall task of...
40 Under 40: 2019’s Emerging Community Bank Leaders
Independent Banker asked community bankers to nominate emerging leaders under the age of 40 in 2019. Here are short profiles of 40 young innovators who are making waves in the industry but still...
Why banks are becoming B Corps
With a commitment to better business practices, B Corps, designated by the non-profit B Lab, are a growing force that count many financial institutions and household brands as members. Could being...
Inside the new style of leadership
Successful community bank leaders inspire from the top while putting the team first. Here’s how.
Jacob Eisen: Make Payments a Strategic Budget Priority
Payments have transformed into a strategic opportunity. They no longer simply perform a routine function. Instead, they offer revenue potential, enhanced customer experiences and more.
Lindsay LaNore: How to Play Well Without the Ball
There’s a rule that applies on the basketball court that can also be applied in the workplace. It’s called the 95% rule, and this is how it works.
Succession Planning Essentials for Family Banks
Creating succession plans for family-owned community banks can be complicated in all sorts of ways.
Inviting Questions to Spark Better Conversations
We all know how powerful curiosity can be. Every great leader knows that inviting feedback and questions from their team can be a highly collaborative and productive process.
The Power of Healthy Dissent in Leadership
Discover how healthy dissent fuels stronger teams and better decisions. Learn leadership strategies to foster dialogue and innovation.
ENTER NOW: 40 Under 40: Community Bank Leaders awards
Nominations for 40 Under 40: Community Bank Leaders 2026 are now open! 40 Under 40 seeks to recognize community banking’s brightest, most promising young professionals. Winners are featured in...
Leading a Community Bank Through a CEO Transition
CEO transitions are critical moments for community banks. Hear from new bank leaders on how listening, mentorship and steady communication help build trust and maintain stability during leadership...
Everything You Need to Know About ICBA LIVE 2026
The world's largest gathering of community bankers will be inspiring, educational and invigorating. Learn about the events, speakers and celebrations that make it a must-attend event.
Lindsay LaNore: How to Celebrate Someone Else's Win
In this highly competitive world, we all need reminders to slow down and celebrate success, including the wins of others. Community bank leaders are uniquely positioned to be a cheerleader and...