MONTGOMERY – Macke Mauldin, president of Bank Independent, has been appointed to the Alabama Growth Alliance, Gov. Kay Ivey announced. The initiative is aimed at supporting efforts to drive economic growth and innovation through the governor’s new economic development strategy.
“I’m honored to be appointed to the Alabama Growth Alliance and look forward to working alongside such esteemed colleagues,” said Mauldin, a Florence resident. “Public-private partnerships are essential for fostering economic growth and building trust within our communities. By combining our diverse expertise and resources, we can create sustainable development strategies that will benefit all Alabamians.
“I am excited to work with Governor Ivey and both the public and private members of the alliance to move Alabama forward. I am humbled that the governor asked me to be a part of this and I am honored to serve.”
In a release from the governor’s office announcing the appointment, the Alabama Growth Alliance was touted as another major milestone in the implementation of the Working for Alabama legislative package, which Ivey championed and signed into law this year.
The Working for Alabama package of legislation established the Alabama Growth Alliance. The aim to bring public and private leadership together is meant to coordinate and strengthen the state’s ability to bring about economic development success.
In addition to Mauldin, seven other business leaders were appointed to the group:
- Angus Cooper III, president of the Mobile-based Cooper Group., has a deep understanding of international trade and the maritime and logistics sectors.
- Helena Duncan, president and CEO of the Montgomery-based Business Council of Alabama, brings a strong background in business advocacy and policy.
- Jimmy Rane, chairman and CEO of Great Southern Wood Preserving in Abbeville, is a prominent figure in the wood products and construction industry.
- John Turner, president and CEO of Birmingham-based Regions Financial Corp., offers expertise in financial services and economic strategy.
- Allison Ross of Huntsville is a consulting, real estate and public relations entrepreneur and former owner of Yellowhammer News. (Lieutenant governor appointee)
- Jeff Peoples, Chairman, president and CEO of Birmingham-based Alabama Power, is a leader in the energy sector. (Senate President Pro Tempore appointee)
- Bruce Culpepper of Guntersville, former president and U.S. Country Chair of Shell Oil Co., has extensive experience in the energy and petrochemical industries. (Speaker of the House appointee)
“The experienced business leaders on the Alabama Growth Alliance will be able to lend key support to the forward-looking strategies outlined in the new economic development plan. By working together, we’re building a stronger, more prosperous Alabama for generations to come,” Ivey said.
Ivey is chair of the alliance and Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce Ellen McNair is co-chair. Joining them as ex-officio members are Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Reed; Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter; Finance Director and Innovate Alabama Chair Bill Poole; Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton; and House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels.
The alliance begins work Oct. 1, when a task force led by McNair delivers an economic development strategic plan to Ivey.
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