8-K

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 8-K

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): April 15, 2024

ISABELLA BANK CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (989) 772-9471

Not Applicable

(Former name or former address, if changed since last report.)

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

| ☐ | Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425) | | --- | --- || ☐ | Soliciting material pursuant to Rule l4a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.l4a-l2) | | --- | --- || ☐ | Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule l4d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.l4d-2(b)) | | --- | --- || ☐ | Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.l3e-4(c)) | | --- | --- |

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Section 5 - Corporate Governance and Management

Item 5.02 Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers.

(c)     Appointment of William M. Schaefer as Chief Financial Officer

On April 1, 2024, William M. Schaefer was appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of Isabella Bank Corporation. Mr. Schaefer, age 44, has over 23 years of experience in the accounting and financial sector. Mr. Schaefer served as Senior Vice President Controller and Vice President of Finance at prominent regional and community banks on the East Coast.

In connection with Mr. Schaefer's appointment, effective April 1, 2024, Neil M. McDonnell resumed his role as President of Isabella Bank. Mr. McDonnell held the title of Interim Chief Financial Officer since January 5, 2024.

Section 9 - Financial Statements and Exhibits

Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d)    Exhibits:

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

Document

Exhibit 99.1

For Immediate Release

Isabella Bank Corporation

401 North Main Street

Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858-1649

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Lori Peterson, Director of Marketing

Phone: 989-779-6333 Fax: 989-775-5501

Schaefer joins Isabella Bank Corporation as Chief Financial Officer

Isabella Bank Corporation proudly announces the appointment of William M. Schaefer as its Chief Financial Officer, effective April 1, 2024. Jerome Schwind, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Isabella Bank Corporation, expressed his warm welcome for Schaefer, stating, "I am thrilled to welcome Bill to our team! His extensive experience and remarkable skill set align perfectly with our goals and strategies, making him an excellent addition to the bank."

Schaefer brings a wealth of experience accumulated over 23 years in the accounting and finance sector. His professional journey encompasses roles in public accounting and controllership. Notably, Schaefer served as Senior Vice President Controller and Vice President of Finance at prominent regional and community banks on the East Coast. Additionally, he held a Controller position for an international manufacturing company, providing him with invaluable insights gained from his work abroad.

Schaefer holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Albany in New York and is a Certified Public Accountant, exemplifying his dedication to excellence in his field.

In addition to his professional achievements, Schaefer embodies a strong sense of community and dedication. He and his wife have embraced their relocation from Bar Harbor, Maine, to Mount Pleasant, Michigan, reflecting his eagerness to immerse himself in his new role and surroundings.

Isabella Bank, a subsidiary of Isabella Bank Corporation (OTCQX:ISBA), has been a cornerstone of the community since its establishment in 1903. With a legacy spanning 120 years, Isabella Bank remains steadfast in its commitment to providing unparalleled banking services tailored to the needs of its customers. With 31 locations across eight Mid-Michigan counties, the bank offers a comprehensive range of personal and commercial lending and deposit products, alongside investment, trust, and estate planning services through Isabella Wealth. For more information about Isabella Bank Corporation, please visit the Investor Relations link at www.isabellabank.com.

Equal Housing Lender, Member FDIC.