Independence Bank

Independence Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Kate Compton to the role of eBanking Specialist. Kate, who has demonstrated outstanding skills and dedication in her role as a bookkeeper, will now bring her expertise to the rapidly evolving world of eBanking. A proud native of Havre, MT, Kate has deep roots in the community, having lived there for 21 years. She attended Missoula College at the University of Montana, where she earned an Associates of Science Degree. Over the years, Kate has built a strong foundation in both bookkeeping and customer service, spending 7 years working in the service industry before joining Independence Bank. In her new role, Kate will leverage her accounting experience and passion for technology to support the growth of the bank’s digital banking services. Outside of her professional life, Kate enjoys crocheting, helping on her family’s farm, and spending quality time with friends and family. Whether it’s playing cards, board games, or enjoying outdoor activities, Kate values the time she spends connecting with loved ones. #ibyourbank #ibebanking #ibbookkeeping

Independence Bank is proud to announce the promotion of Haley Graham to the position of Officer and Bookkeeping & eBanking Supervisor. Haley has been an integral part of our team, demonstrating exceptional dedication and expertise. Haley grew up in Havre, MT, and attended MSU-Northern. She joined Bear Paw Credit Union in August 2015 and served with distinction for seven years. During her tenure, she excelled in various roles, starting as a teller for just under a year, then as a Member Service Representative for three years, and finally as a loan processor for the last three years at Bear Paw Credit Union. Haley joined Independence Bank in September of 2022 as a Bookkeeper. She was quickly promoted to Bookkeeping Manager in June 2023 and is now an Officer and the Bookkeeping & eBanking Supervisor.  Having lived in the Havre branch community for 29 years, Haley is deeply connected to the area. She is an active Board Member for United Way of Hill County, contributing to the betterment of the community. Outside of work, Haley enjoys traveling, golfing, bowling, and spending time with friends. She has been a dedicated participant in the Sunday bowling league for five years and is entering her sixth year. Additionally, she plays in a golf scramble league during the summer. We are confident that Haley will continue to bring her passion and commitment to her new role, driving success and innovation in our bookkeeping and eBanking services. #ibyourbank #ibbookkeeping

Congratulations to Christen Ouellette & Andy Morris for completing the EDP program this year. Your dedication to growing as leaders in at Independence Bank is very appreciated.

Montana Bankers Association and MONTANA INDEPENDENT BANKERS hosted the 2024 Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Community Banker Workshop, which offered Montana bankers and board members some great insights and information this week. Thanks to the FDIC team members, Melanie Hall, Commissioner at Division of Banking, and everyone who joined the workshop! Banks from all over Montana were represented, in-person and online, including Western Security Bank, Valley Bank of Helena, Citizens Trust Bank, Stockman of Montana, Independence Bank, The Bank of Baker, The First State Bank of Shelby, Glacier Bancorp, Inc., American Bank Montana, First Citizens Bank of Butte, Bank of the Rockies, Freedom Bank, Glacier Bank, Madison Valley Bank, and Garfield County Bank. We look forward to seeing you at the next one! Find more workshops, training, classes and sessions for Montana bankers at www.MontanaBankers.com. #forALLMontanabankers #educationforbankers #FDIC #communitybankersworkshop2024

Independence Bank is pleased to announce the hiring of Scott Leeds as our new Ag/Commercial Loan Officer. With a robust background in finance and operations, Scott brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the Havre community. Scott grew up in Havre, MT, and graduated from Carroll College with a degree in Business Finance. His professional journey began at Triangle Communications, where he dedicated 29.5 years, progressing from Technician to Operations Manager. Having lived in Havre for 51 years, Scott is deeply rooted in the community. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Scott has made significant contributions to local sports, coaching football at MSU-Northern for 16 years and at Havre High School for 3 years, as well as Little Pony Football.  Outside of work and coaching, Scott enjoys hiking, skiing, and sports. He values time spent with family and friends, often relaxing by the fire pit after a day of activities.  #ibyourbank #ibhavre #iblending

#ibyourbank #ibcongratulations

In recognition of #CybersecurityAwarenessMonth we’re launching #PracticeSafeChecks, a new campaign that equips banks with tools to educate their customers on how to protect themselves against check fraud. Watch our new check safety video and view our new website: https://aba.social/3N7KpfP

Independence Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Lauren Kato to Teller Supervisor and Accountant Relations Specialist. Lauren, who joined the bank in January 2022 as an Account Relations Specialist, has consistently demonstrated her commitment to customer service and professional development. A native of Havre, MT, Lauren brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She attended Dawson Community College and is currently pursuing further studies at Miles City Community College. Before joining Independence Bank, Lauren worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant for four years in various healthcare settings, including the Care Center, Med/Surg Floor, and Hospice Care. In addition to her professional achievements, Lauren is actively involved in her community. She enjoys spending time with friends and family and has a passion for sports, particularly softball and golf. Lauren has also contributed to the local community by coaching young athletes in the Havre Girls’ Fast-pitch Association, where she teaches pitching skills. #ibyourbank #ibaccountrelations

Independence Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Sydne Haider to Account Relations Supervisor. Sydne joined the bank on October 13, 2021, as an Account Relations Specialist and has since demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership within her role.   A lifelong resident of Havre, MT, Sydne has been an integral part of the community for 28 years. She attended Montana State University-Northern for two years, where she developed a strong foundation for her career. Before her tenure at Independence Bank, Sydne worked for five years at Northern Montana Family Medical Center, gaining valuable experience as an Insurance Verification Clerk and Call Center Receptionist.   Sydne resides in Havre with her husband, Chris, and their daughter, Cooper. In her free time, she enjoys golfing, hunting, and fishing, as well as spending quality time with family and friends. #ibyourbank #ibaccountrelations

#ibyourbank #ibcongratulations