Derek Hetherington has served as President and CEO of Independent Correspondent Bankers’ Bank (ICBB) since January 2020. Since joining ICBB in 2014, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the bank’s long-term growth and strategic direction. Under his leadership, ICBB has achieved significant milestones, including expanding the loan participation network, enhancing services and product offerings, fostering new relationships, and broadening its footprint. The bank has experienced consistent year-over-year growth in assets under management, respondent bank relationships, and overall stakeholder value. While strengthening ICBB’s performance, Derek remains steadfast in his commitment to supporting community banks across the region.
Prior to joining ICBB, Derek worked in nearly every area of retail and commercial banking. His career began on the teller line, where he developed a passion for banking and built the foundation for his career. He attributes his success to the power of personal relationships and community engagement.
“From my first day working at a bank, I understood the importance of developing strong personal connections. A simple act—greeting every customer, co-worker, and peer by name—proved to be incredibly powerful. That early lesson continues to drive me today.”
A native of Fairbury, Illinois, Derek graduated from Prairie Central High School before serving as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army’s 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne). Following his military service, he attended Western Kentucky University, graduating magna cum laude with a degree in financial management. He also completed a two-year bank management training program and earned his Omega Credit Certification. Furthering his education, Derek is a 2018 graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His diverse background and deep industry knowledge have fueled his passion for community banking and positioned him as a strategic leader in the financial sector.
Derek and his wife, Sarah, reside in Lexington, Kentucky, with their children, Jon Parker (16) and Ella Rae (12), along with their three dogs, Minnie, Blue, and Benny. He enjoys golf, Kentucky sports, beach trips, and coaching his kids’ sports teams.
“Growing up in a small rural town, I saw firsthand the vital role community banks play in supporting local businesses and families. I’m proud to lead ICBB in its mission to protect, promote, and support community banks throughout the region.”
