March/April 2025
Photography // Courtesy of State Bank
State Bank’s newly appointed president and soon to be CEO in 2026, Matt Price, brings more than just professional experience to the role — he brings a deep understanding of the people and values that shape Central Indiana. From his roots in Zionsville to a career spent serving and leading in various capacities, Price has always viewed leadership as an act of stewardship.
“I think the biggest thing for me is a sense of just being thankful,” Price shared. “These communities weren’t created by accident. They were built by the hard work, vision and investment of those who came before us.”
LOCAL TIES WITH A LONG-TERM PERSPECTIVE
Born in Lafayette and raised in Zionsville, Price has lived, worked and volunteered in Boone and Hamilton counties for decades. His professional background spans 32 years as a practicing attorney, during which he earned a reputation as a trusted advisor to families and small businesses. But beyond his legal career, Price has been deeply involved in public service — as a board member for the Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library and as president of the Zionsville Town Council. Price credits his time on the town council as pivotal to his leadership development.
“I always joke that being on the Zionsville Town Council is like a second college degree,” he said. “It gave me a deeper understanding of economic development and taught me that quality investment requires planning and vision. There aren’t any quick fixes, but long-term investment pays dividends for generations.”
A SHARED VISION, A NEW CHAPTER
Price’s path to State Bank was unconventional but authentic. It all started with a casual golf game alongside former State Bank President Mike Baker. That friendly round sparked conversations that would evolve into mentorship and, ultimately, a professional opportunity.
Price shared, “Mike continually brought me back to the truth that community banking is about relationships. It’s about trust. It’s about having a strong, steadfast institution that’s there for the community in good times and in bad.”
A UNIQUE PATH OF ENGAGEMENT
Before joining the bank’s leadership, Price first experienced State Bank as a customer — a perspective that now informs his leadership philosophy. Encouraged by that experience, he joined the bank’s Board of Directors in 2018, gaining valuable insights into the institution’s operations and long-term vision. Price’s legal background, paired with a growing appreciation for the bank’s mission, made the transition feel natural.
“In some ways,” Price reflected, “this is a new form of service to the community for me. Using my experience and connections to benefit our customers is a huge opportunity.”
INVESTING IN PEOPLE AND PARTNERSHIPS
Now as President, Price is focused on building upon State Bank’s legacy while embracing innovation and collaboration. He acknowledges the challenges ahead — rapid technological shifts, regulatory changes and competitive pressures — but sees these as opportunities for growth.
“Our strategy is to invest in our greatest strengths — our people and our relationships,” Price said. “The more we can be of and from the community, the better positioned we are to help it prosper in the long term.”
Price sees parallels between the bank’s mission and the vision of local business owners.
“Oftentimes, when we have a customer looking to make an investment, they have a long-term strategy. And we’re right there with them. That shared vision is key.”
A STEWARD OF THE BANK’S LEGACY
Price takes his role seriously, not just as a leader but as a steward of an institution with more than 100 years of history.
“I’m the seventh president of State Bank, and I’ve had the privilege of meeting the fourth, fifth and sixth,” Price said. “That gives me a great sense of humility. It’s an honor and a duty to take care of that trust and hand it off in better condition to the next leader.”
Price is quick to credit the example set by his predecessor.
“Mike has been an excellent representative of that stewardship. He reminded me that community banking isn’t just about numbers — it’s about people. It’s about trust.”
CELEBRATING LOCAL BUSINESS EVERY DAY
Price’s passion for small businesses is personal and palpable.
“I love Small Business Saturday, but I like to think we have that running through our veins every day at State Bank,” Price said. “That’s who we are. What gets me out of bed in the morning is knowing I get to support the people behind those businesses — the families, the employees, the customers. It’s awesome.”
Price believes that State Bank plays a vital role in amplifying the local economy.
“We are the filter of our local economy. The best way to have a positive impact is to support local, absolutely.”
A VISION ROOTED IN GRATITUDE AND GROWTH
As Price looks to the future, he brings with him a wealth of experience, a heart for service and an unwavering belief in the potential of community.
“We live in an area filled with talented individuals with diverse expertise,” Price stated. “The more we can tap into that local talent, the more we can grow and reach new heights. It’s limitless.”
With a clear vision and a deep commitment to the values that built Central Indiana, Price is poised to lead State Bank into its next chapter, one marked by stewardship, sustainability and a sincere focus on people.
“Banking is ultimately about relationships,” Price concluded. “And I believe when we put our community first, success always follows.”
CARMEL BRANCH
4775 E. 126th Street
Carmel, IN 46033
(317) 843-6990
ZIONSVILLE BRANCH
6529 E. Whitestown Parkway
Zionsville, IN 46077
(317) 769-7330