Lansing, Mich., April 7, 2025 – The Michigan Bankers Association (MBA) recognizes William. B. (Brad) Kessel, President & CEO of Independent Bank, as the recipient of the esteemed 2025 MBA Banker of the Year award.
The MBA Board of Directors awarded Brad this prestigious honor in recognition of his outstanding dedication to the MBA, significant contributions to the banking industry, the remarkable success of Independent Bank, and his exemplary record of community service.
“The Michigan Bankers Association has made an outstanding choice in recognizing Brad as the 2025 Banker of the Year,” said Ray Biggs, MBA Chairman and President & CEO of West Shore Bank. “As a dynamic and passionate leader, Brad fosters a culture of collaboration and engagement, understanding bankers’ profound impact on their communities. Under his leadership, Independent Bank has flourished, reflecting his dedication and vision.”
Brad will be honored at the MBA’s 139th Annual Convention on Mackinac Island in June, where his achievements and contributions to the banking industry will be celebrated.
Brad joined Independent Bank in 1994 and was promoted to executive leadership in 2004. In 2011, he was appointed president of the bank and its holding company, Independent Bank Corporation, and was named CEO in January 2013. Brad has been an active MBA leader throughout his career, serving on the MBA Board of Directors, including as MBA Chairman from 2021 to 2022. He also served on the Executive Committee, MiBankPAC Board, and Perry School of Banking Board. He has represented the industry during Chicago Regulatory Meetings and several ABA/MBA Advocacy Summits in Washington D.C. Brad has also lent his expertise to the ABA Community Bankers Council and ABA Government Relations Council. Brad also served for three years on the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago’s Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council.
Under Brad’s leadership, Independent Bank has implemented key initiatives that strengthen Michigan communities. The statewide “Be the Difference Day” allows the Bank to close annually so all employees can participate in community projects. Over nine years, the Bank has donated more than $1 million to over 80 Michigan causes. Kessel has spearheaded affordable housing development initiatives in Grand Rapids to improve housing conditions and economic stability. Independent Bank’s My Home Rewards Program commits $1 million to homeownership opportunities in low- and moderate-income communities with benefits including no closing costs for qualified applicants.
“This recognition from the Michigan Bankers Association is significant to me. I’ve spent more than 30 years growing with this incredible company and had the privilege of working alongside a team that puts people first—every single day,” said Brad Kessel, President and CEO of Independent Bank. I’m grateful to our Board of Directors, senior leaders, and especially our 800 dedicated associates who show up with purpose and heart. Together, we’ve built something more than a bank—we’re a partner in every customer’s journey to financial independence, from the classroom to homeownership and everything in between. This award reflects our impact across Michigan, and I’m honored to accept it for the entire team.”
Brad’s leadership has propelled Independent Bank to significant achievements. Forbes regularly recognizes the bank as a Best-In-State Bank and named it to its 2025 list of America’s Best Banks, securing a top-20 position in the nation and the highest position in Michigan. Independent Bank was also named a Piper Sandler Small Star Bank in 2024, ranking in the top 10% across key financial metrics. In 2024, under Kessel’s leadership, the Bank achieved 7% total loan growth, 5% core deposit growth, and 13% EPS growth.
Brad also has cultivated a workplace culture at Independent Bank centered on the core values of People Focus, Drive, Teamwork, Integrity, and Courage. This commitment has led to consecutive Great Place to Work recognitions and honors as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces by Newsweek for strong employee recruiting and retention. Brad earned “Newsmaker of the Year” from Crain’s Grand Rapids Business in March 2025 for announcing the Bank’s purchase of a new downtown office building where Independent Bank’s commercial team and a retail branch will support the city’s development initiatives.
Beyond banking, Brad is deeply involved with West Michigan organizations that address educational, housing, and economic development needs. He is the Immediate Past Chair of Junior Achievement Michigan Great Lakes, a Co-Chair of Housing Kent, and a Board Member of The Right Place. His leadership has extended to roles such as Chair of Junior Achievement of Michigan Great Lakes (2019–2022) and Chair of the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce (2010). He also contributes as a Church Council Member and Treasurer at Trinity Lutheran Church.
This past year, Independent Bank celebrated its 160th anniversary and Brad’s leadership has solidified its reputation as a financial institution dedicated to honest banking, community impact, and industry excellence.
“Brad exemplifies what it means to be a true leader in the banking industry,” stated T. Rann Paynter, President & CEO, MBA. “His dedication to his employees, customers, and community has set a standard of excellence that inspires those around him. His vision and commitment to innovation, financial literacy, and economic development have made a lasting impact on Michigan’s banking landscape.”
The Michigan Bankers Association is honored to recognize Brad Kessel as the 2025 Banker of the Year, celebrating his remarkable contributions to Michigan banking and beyond.
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