Georgia Banker Elected ICBA Chairman

ICBA Press Release Banner 2020

Williams of Milledgeville to Serve the Nation’s Community Banks

Honolulu (March 16, 2023) — Derek B. Williams, president and CEO of Century Bank & Trust in Milledgeville, Ga., was elected chairman of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) for 2023-24. His term begins March 16 at the conclusion of the ICBA LIVE national convention in Honolulu.

“Community banks are a vital component of the American economy,” said Williams. “Their presence across communities is essential for the country’s economic well-being. I’m eager to continue these efforts and lend my support to ICBA's mission as chairman. It’s crucial we work together to ensure the preservation and growth of community banks across America.”

Williams serves in many leadership roles at ICBA. He is chairman of the ICBA Executive Committee and board of directors. He is a member of ICBA’s Federal Delegate Board and its Policy Development and Nominating committees. He serves on the ICBA ThinkTECH Selection Committee and is Executive Committee liaison to the Bank Innovation and Solutions Committee and the Large Community Bank Council.

Active in his local community, Williams serves as chairman of the Communities in Schools of Milledgeville, Baldwin County; vice chairman of the Milledgeville Baldwin County Development Authority; and member of the Middle Georgia Regional Commission Council. He also previously served as chairman of the American Cancer Society of Muscogee County in Columbus, Ga., is a past chairman of the Community Bankers Association of Georgia, and is former treasurer of the Milledgeville Rotary Club.

“Derek is a highly dedicated and enthusiastic advocate for his community,” said ICBA Immediate Past Chairman Brad M. Bolton, president and CEO of Community Spirit Bank in Red Bay, Ala. “Working hand-in-hand with ICBA's Executive Committee, Derek will be instrumental in supporting our industry and ensuring relationship banking continues to thrive and evolve. His leadership and vision will undoubtedly leave a positive impact on our industry.”

ICBA is the only national advocacy organization dedicated exclusively to promoting the interests of locally operated community banks and savings institutions. With the high-tech, high-touch banking services that consumers expect, community banks offer the best financial-services options for millions of consumers, small businesses and agricultural enterprises.

For more information, including a biography for Williams, visit ICBA’s website.

About ICBA

The Independent Community Bankers of America® creates and promotes an environment where community banks flourish. ICBA is dedicated exclusively to representing the interests of the community banking industry and its membership through effective advocacy, best-in-class education, and high-quality products and services.

With nearly 50,000 locations nationwide, community banks employ nearly 700,000 Americans and are the only physical banking presence in one in three U.S. counties. Holding more than $5.8 trillion in assets, over $4.8 trillion in deposits, and more than $3.5 trillion in loans to consumers, small businesses and the agricultural community, community banks channel local deposits into the Main Streets and neighborhoods they serve, spurring job creation, fostering innovation and fueling their customers’ dreams in communities throughout America. For more information, visit ICBA’s website at www.icba.org.

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