Former Florida Market President
Republic Bank & Trust Company
James Kirkpatrick oversaw Republic Bank’s Florida operations, spanning seven banking centers and commercial lending across Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties. With over 35 years in banking, his career reflects resilience, community focus and character-driven leadership.
After being passed over for two president roles earlier in his career, Kirkpatrick learned to grow through disappointment and found renewed purpose leading with impact over ambition. “It helped me develop my character and find greater meaning in the work,” he says.
He serves on several nonprofit boards and credits his team for making a meaningful impact possible. “All the strategic plans only work with a strong team empowered to make it happen,” he says. His proudest moment? Finally becoming president.