New York, NY (October 2, 2024) – Newsweek Magazine today published the annual America’s Top Most Loved Workplaces® list, developed by Most Loved Workplace®, a division of Best Practice Institute (BPI). Bank Independent was ranked #54. This marks the fourth annual Most Loved Workplace® list. This year, the list has expanded to the Top 200, reflecting companies' growing commitment to prioritizing employee sentiment and creating workplaces that employees love.
Bank Independent has made the list for the third consecutive year, ranking as the highest-ranked financial institution in Alabama and third overall company, behind Birmingham-based Milo’s Tea and Southern Veterinary Partners.
The results were determined after surveying more than 2.6 million employees from businesses with workforces varying in size from less than 50 to more than 10,000. The list recognizes companies that put respect, caring, and appreciation for their employees at the center of their business model and, in doing so, have earned the loyalty and respect of the people who work for them.
"Being named to America’s Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces list for the third consecutive year is a remarkable honor that speaks to the strength of our culture," stated Rick Wardlaw, CEO of Bank Independent. "At Bank Independent, we prioritize fostering a workplace where every team member feels valued and connected. Our commitment to investing in our people not only enhances their professional growth but also strengthens the trust our customers have in us. This recognition reflects the positive impact our team members continue to make on each other, their families, and their communities."
How positive workers feel about their future at the company, career achievement, how much employer values align with employee values, respect at all levels, and the level of collaboration at the firm were the five critical areas measured to gauge employee sentiment. In addition, areas such as inclusion, diversity, equity and belonging, career development, and company leadership were identified and analyzed in relation to the five critical areas measured.
“It’s inspiring to see the list expand this year to 200 companies, a clear indication that organizations are truly committed to creating workplaces where employees feel valued and connected. We’re thrilled to celebrate their achievements as this recognition continues to grow.”
"When companies set up employees to succeed, the entire organization thrives. This year’s Top America's Most Loved Workplaces® shows that fostering love of the workplace isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a key driver of performance and retention. We’re excited to see the list grow to 200 companies this year, but that’s just the beginning. Our work won’t be done until every company in the world is Most Loved Workplace® certified and every employee loves showing up to their job each day."
For the full list of the 2024 America’s Top 200 Most Loved Workplaces®, please visit here.
Methodology
To identify the top 200 companies in this list, companies were evaluated and scored as follows: 50 percent of the initial score was based on direct employee responses to BPI's Love of Workplace Index® assessment. 35 percent came from BPI's direct interviews and written responses from company officials. The final 15 percent was derived from analysis of external public ratings from sites such as Comparably, Careerbliss, Glassdoor, Indeed, and Google. Newsweek then conducted editorial research on every company before the final list of 200 companies and their rankings was completed.
For more information on how to apply to become a certified Most Loved Workplace, go to: http://www.mostlovedworkplace.com
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 our team members 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.
About Newsweek
Newsweek is the modern global digital news organization built around the iconic, over 90-year-old American magazine. Newsweek reaches 100 million people each month with its thought-provoking news, opinion, images, graphics, and video delivered across a dozen print and digital platforms. Headquartered in New York City, Newsweek also publishes international editions in EMEA and Asia.
About Best Practice Institute
Best Practice Institute is an award-winning leadership and organization development center, benchmark research company, think tank, and solutions provider. BPI is the only certifying body for Most Loved Workplace® and conducted the original research to create the model and criteria for becoming a Most Loved Workplace®. BPI’s research proves that Most Loved Workplaces® produce 3-4 times better customer service, employee performance, and retention than companies not loved by their employees.
