Well-recognized for his leadership and talent within the state, Alabama’s own Bill Poole has been selected as a member of the Presidential Leadership Scholars for the class of 2025.

Poole currently serves as the State Finance Director under Governor Kay Ivey, served previously as the education budget chairman in the Alabama House, and will now become one of 57 scholars part of the prestigious six-month program.

For the past decade, PLS has brought together a broad network of established public and private sector leaders. According to the program, leaders are vetted and chosen for their demonstrated leadership and support of projects aimed at addressing challenges, forming strategic partnerships, and ultimately improving the lives of those they serve.

“It is an incredible honor to be named to the 2025 Class of Presidential Leadership Scholars,” said Director Poole. “I look forward to interacting with and learning from past presidents and industry leaders. I am excited to work alongside peers from across the country that are dedicated to promoting civic engagement and working on issues that will improve our communities.”

Governor Kay Ivey also sent a resounding recommendation for Poole as he begins the exchange with other officials.

“I am proud to surround myself with a dedicated team of public servants to help propel Alabama forward, and I am certainly glad that includes Bill Poole. It is very exciting Bill has been selected for the Presidential Leadership Scholars Program, and I know he will represent our state well,” Ivey said.

“Congratulations to Bill as he continues taking steps to develop and best serve the people of Alabama.”

Poole has served as Finance Director for the State of Alabama since 2021. As Alabama’s chief financial officer, he serves as an advisor to the governor and the legislature on all financial matters and is charged with promoting and protecting the fiscal interests of the State of Alabama.

He also serves as chairman of Innovate Alabama, the state’s first public-private partnership tasked with promoting entrepreneurship, technology and innovation.