Banking veterans Freeman, Bishop join SouthState’s expanding roster

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — A pair of Huntsville banking veterans have joined SouthState as it expands its roster of experienced bankers serving clients across nine states.

Blake Freeman was named Huntsville regional president of SouthState and Michael Bishop was hired as commercial banker in the Huntsville office.

“We believe our team members are our greatest asset, and this crop of new hires bring not only impressive skills but also a collaborative spirit that aligns well with our core values,” said Richard Murray, SouthState president. “We look forward to achieving success for our clients and communities together.”

Freeman joins SouthState from ServisFirst Bank where he worked since 2013. While there, he managed a diverse portfolio of commercial and industrial clients, government contractors, residential development and home construction, and large construction efforts including multi-family and hospitality development.

A graduate of Leadership Huntsville/Madison County’s Flagship Class 35, Connect Class 21, and Focus Class 36, Freeman graduated from Auburn University Cum Laude with a degree in finance.

Bishop brings a decade-plus of experience, also coming to SouthState from ServisFirst. He has developed a diverse portfolio including law practices, software companies, real estate development, and transportation across the Southeast.

A graduate of the Jacksonville State School of Business and Industry, Bishop is an alumnus of the Leadership Greater Huntsville Connect 27 Class.

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