Independent Bank (INDB) Proxy Filing summary

Executive summary

• The 2025 Annual Shareholder Meeting will be held virtually on May 15, 2025, with online access for all shareholders and no physical location.

• Shareholders of record as of March 21, 2025, are eligible to vote on key proposals and attend the meeting.

• Proxy materials are available online, with options for electronic or paper delivery, and voting can be done online, by phone, mail, or during the meeting.

Voting matters and shareholder proposals

• Shareholders will vote on the reelection of five Class II directors, ratification of Ernst & Young LLP as the independent auditor for 2025, and an advisory vote on executive compensation.

• The Board recommends voting FOR all director nominees and FOR both the auditor ratification and say-on-pay proposals.

• Shareholders may submit director nominations and proposals for the 2026 meeting following specific advance notice and eligibility requirements.

Board of directors and corporate governance

• The Board will expand from 12 to 15 members effective April 1, 2025, with three new directors appointed.

• Directors are divided into three classes with staggered three-year terms; diversity, experience, and ethical standards are emphasized in director selection.

• The Board has adopted Governance Principles, a Code of Ethics, and written charters for all committees, and maintains a majority of independent directors.

• All directors attended at least 75% of meetings in 2024, and all current directors meet stock ownership guidelines.