News Summary
Alabama businesses are undergoing significant leadership shifts as companies across various sectors appoint new executives and promote existing leaders. Notable changes include promotions in accounting, banking, education, engineering, financial services, and law. The Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, educational institutions, and various private firms are restructuring their leadership teams to enhance operational effectiveness. As these leaders take their roles, they aim to drive growth and innovation in Alabama’s dynamic business landscape.
Alabama is experiencing significant changes in key personnel across various business sectors as companies and institutions make strategic moves to enhance their leadership and operational capabilities.
Recent Key Appointments and Promotions
In the accounting sector, Dent Moses LLP CPAs & Advisors has elevated Walker Gann to partner, a move that underscores the firm’s commitment to strong leadership and expert guidance for its clients.
In the banking industry, FirstBank has welcomed Derek Johnson as the new senior vice president and senior relationship manager for its Birmingham team, fortifying its client relationship management. Additionally, Lisa Bryan has been promoted to private banking manager at ServisFirst Bank in Huntsville, reflecting the bank’s focus on enhancing its personal banking services.
Caddell Construction is undergoing a leadership transformation within its organization as part of its growth strategy. Ricky Byrd has been named president of the commercial division, Isaac Sneeringer has been appointed president of international operations, and Stephen Strickland takes on the role of president of governmental services.
In the realm of economic development, the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama has brought on Jordan Howard as vice president of strategic alliances, aiming to strengthen collaborations and drive economic growth throughout the state.
Changes in Education and Engineering
In the education sector, the University of West Alabama is set for a significant transition as President Ken Tucker prepares for retirement, during which he will be honored as the institution’s first president emeritus. This change heralds a new chapter in the university’s leadership.
Over in engineering, Neel-Schaffer has made notable promotions within its Birmingham office. Lance Taylor rises to senior vice president, while Wes Nelson, Becky Rogers, and Josh Stump have been promoted to vice president, positioning the firm for further growth in engineering services and oversight.
Developments in Financial Services and Law
In financial services, Argent Trust Co. has appointed Amanda Fernandes as vice president and director of advisory services for its Funeral & Cemetery Trust Division, aiming to enhance its specialized financial offerings. LoanDepot Inc. has also made a strategic move, bringing in Bart Evans as regional vice president, handling operations across Alabama, Arkansas, and Tennessee.
The law sector has seen significant shifts with Adams and Reese promoting Blake Richardson and Aaron McLeod to partner status in their Mobile and Birmingham offices, respectively. Todd Engelhardt has also been promoted to partner in charge of the Birmingham office. New leadership is evident at Burr & Forman as Charles Marshall joins as chief operating officer, enhancing management capabilities. Meanwhile, Gilpin Givhan has promoted John George Archer to shareholder, and Hall Booth Smith has expanded its Birmingham office by adding associates Drake Rippy and Cameron McCormack.
Government, Security, and Other Notable Appointments
On the governmental front, Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed has been selected as one of eight leaders for the 2025 Mayors’ Institute on City Design’s Just City Mayoral Fellows program, signifying Montgomery’s active role in national discussions. Additionally, Jerime Reid has been appointed as chief of staff for the City of Montgomery, a role that will further influence local governance.
In the realm of security, DSI Security Services has honored Heath Jackson, the sheriff of Escambia County, with the Sheriff of the Year Award from the Alabama Sheriffs Association for the year 2025, recognizing exceptional leadership in law enforcement.
Lastly, the economic landscape is also reflecting activity in retail and marine sectors. Clarke Todd has joined Colliers as a senior associate specializing in retail investment sales in Alabama, aiming to bolster retail transactions. In addition, Tony Ardito has taken the helm as president of Birdon America, based in Bayou La Batre, focusing on marine innovations and operations.
Conclusion
These recent personnel changes across diverse sectors in Alabama reflect a dynamic business environment, with organizations positioning themselves for growth and enhanced operational effectiveness. As these leaders step into their new roles, they will play crucial parts in shaping the future of their respective industries in the state.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Alabama News Center: Business Facilities Ranks Alabama a National Leader in Key Sectors
- Wikipedia: Alabama
- AL Daily News: CNBC Ranks Alabama No. 19 for Business
- Google Search: Alabama business news
- AL.com: 2 of the Fastest Growing Cities for Small Business Activity Are in Alabama
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Business
- Yellowhammer News: Alabama Business Hall of Fame Unveils 2025 Inductees
- Google News: Alabama business leaders
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
