Bank Independent is pleased to announce the promotions of Drew Blakely, Will Singleton and Ford Tomlinson to Sales Officer, recognizing their commitment to building strong customer relationships, delivering trusted guidance and supporting the continued growth of the communities Bank Independent serves.
“Drew, Will and Ford each demonstrate the relationship-focused leadership we value at Bank Independent,” said Jason Windham, President of Bank Independent. “They have shown a strong commitment to understanding our customers, following through on their needs and creating meaningful connections in the markets they serve. We are proud to recognize their continued growth within our organization and look forward to the impact they will make as Sales Officers.”
Drew Blakely has been promoted to Sales Officer at Bank Independent’s Athens Downtown Sales Office. Since joining Bank Independent in April 2025, Blakely has brought 10 years of agricultural business experience to his role and has focused on building trusted relationships with customers and businesses throughout the Athens and Limestone County market. He is a graduate of West Limestone High School and serves on the board of the Limestone County Economic Development Association.
Will Singleton has been promoted to Sales Officer at Bank Independent’s Madison Sales Office. Singleton officially joined Bank Independent in July 2023 and has progressed through roles of increasing responsibility, including Sales Specialist and Portfolio Manager I. His experience with Bank Independent began in 2022 through the organization’s Summer Internship Program. Singleton earned a Bachelor of Science in Commercial Entrepreneurship and a Master of Science in Product Development from Florida State University. He is also involved with ACME Club, a charitable young professional organization in Huntsville.
Ford Tomlinson has been promoted to Sales Officer for Bank Independent in Madison County, with a primary focus on the Huntsville Downtown market. Since joining Bank Independent in December 2022, Tomlinson has advanced from Portfolio Manager to Relationship Manager and now Sales Officer. He brings six years of banking experience and a strong focus on relationship-building, customer service and community engagement. Tomlinson earned a degree in Business Administration from Birmingham-Southern College and is a graduate of Leadership Greater Huntsville Connect Class 28. He is currently attending Alabama Banking School.
About Bank Independent
Since 1947, Bank Independent has taken pride in serving the customers who count on us to be there for them when they need us most. With 33 traditional Sales Offices across North Alabama, an on-campus Deshler Tiger Branch, and the Digital Sales Office, we’re committed to providing the best service, designing the most desired products and creating an overall excellent experience for each and every customer. As a local community bank, we believe in building relationships that run deep and last. All of our employees reside in our local communities and believe in giving back through volunteering. To become part of a bank that makes a positive difference in people’s lives, visit us at bibank.com.