Independent Bank (US:IBCP) Globenewswire·2025-12-19 21:23Core Viewpoint - Independent Bank Corporation has appointed Michael G. Wooldridge to its Board of Directors, bringing extensive experience in corporate governance, securities, and mergers & acquisitions to the organization [1][3]. Group 1: Appointment Details - Michael G. Wooldridge was previously a partner at the Varnum law firm, focusing on corporate governance, securities, and mergers & acquisitions [1]. - Wooldridge has led numerous public equity and debt offerings for financial services and manufacturing companies, and he regularly advises on executive compensation and corporate structure [1]. - His educational background includes a J.D. from Cornell University Law School and a B.A. from Alma College [3]. Group 2: Company Overview - Independent Bank Corporation is a Michigan-based bank holding company with total assets of approximately $5.5 billion [4]. - The company operates a branch network across Michigan's Lower Peninsula through its state-chartered bank subsidiary, Independent Bank, which offers a full range of financial services [4]. - Independent Bank Corporation is committed to providing exceptional personal service and value to its customers, stockholders, and the communities it serves [4]. Group 3: Leadership Comments - William B. Kessel, President and CEO of Independent Bank Corporation, expressed excitement about Wooldridge's appointment, highlighting his governance and M&A experience [3]. - Wooldridge acknowledged the bank's long history of providing value to shareholders and supporting local communities [3]. Group 4: Honors and Recognition - Wooldridge has received several honors, including being listed in Best Lawyers in America for Corporate Law since 2005 and Mergers & Acquisitions Law since 2024 [2]. - He was recognized as a BTI Client Service All Star in 2012 and has been included in Grand Rapids Magazine's Top Lawyers for Corporate Law since 2019 [2]. - Wooldridge was inducted into the West Michigan Dealmaker Hall of Fame in 2024 [2].