SHEFFIELD – In moves to reinforce its “commitment to strategic growth, risk oversight, and a continued focus on people and culture,” Bank Independent announced a trio of executive appointments recently.
Malania Nesbitt was promoted to senior vice president, chief credit officer; Stacy Suggs was named executive vice president, chief risk officer; and Hallie Mauldin was appointed culture and engagement officer; the bank announced in a news release.
“These leadership decisions reflect our deep commitment to our values and long-term strategic priorities,” said CEO Rick Wardlaw. “Malania’s promotion is a testament to her outstanding contributions to credit leadership, while Stacy and Hallie step into critical roles that will strengthen our foundation in risk and culture, respectively.
“Each of these leaders brings a depth of experience and passion that will serve our team members, customers, and communities well.”
In her elevated role, Nesbitt will continue to lead the Credit Administration Department and report to Preuit Mauldin, executive vice president – credit administration. Since joining the bank in 1994, Nesbitt has advanced through several leadership roles, contributing significantly to the growth and success of the bank’s credit administration. She serves on the bank’s senior leadership and performance teams and is a member of the board of the Alabama Multifamily Loan Consortium.
As executive vice oresident – chief risk officer, Suggs will oversee a broad range of risk-related functions, including credit risk management, cybersecurity, compliance, and internal and external audits. Suggs, who joined the bank in 1988, had served as COO and demonstrated outstanding leadership across operational, technological, and risk disciplines.
In a newly established role underscoring the bank’s commitment to team member engagement and organizational culture, Mauldin will lead initiatives that enhance team member experience and engagement across the organization. She most recently served as community engagement officer and has been instrumental in advancing college partnerships, career development programs, and outreach through the Helping Hands Foundation.
