David Heintzman, who has headed Stock Yards Bank & Trust parent SY Bancorp since 2005 as chairman, chief executive and president, has passed the president's role along to James Hillebrand, who has been with the bank twelve years.

Mr Heintzman will retain the other positions, but said: “This new structure permits me to place greater emphasis on the operational and financial aspects of our business, along with an increased focus on strategic matters that will shape our long-term future."

Mr Hillebrand, most recently the executive vice president and director of private banking, will look after commercial banking and private banking, along with all retail banking, including the residential mortgage company. He was also appointed to the board.

The bank also announced the promotion of Philip Poindexter, to the new position of chief lending officer.