Temporary change within Executive team

Leeds Building Society Chief Executive Officer Richard Fearon is taking a temporary break from the business.

Annette Barnes, who is the Senior Independent Director at the Society and has served on the Board since 2019, will act as the Interim CEO subject to regulatory approval.

Before joining the Leeds Building Society Board, Annette was CEO at Lloyds Bank Private Banking Ltd and a Managing Director within Lloyds Banking Group.

She has more than 35 years’ experience in financial services and has a background in operations, technology and customer engagement.

Richard Fearon, Leeds Building Society Chief Executive Officer, said: “I’m taking a temporary break so I can prioritise family time and making the most of a new baby due in October.

“I am fully committed to Leeds Building Society and I’m very grateful to Brendan and the Board for their support.

“Annette is a highly capable leader who cares deeply about the Society, its members, and its colleagues. I’m confident that she will do an exceptional job.”

Brendan McCafferty, Leeds Building Society Chair, said: “I and the Board are fully supportive of Richard and look forward to his return. Annette has a huge amount of experience and leadership capability well suited to this temporary role.

“We have a brilliant leadership team at the Society and they will continue to deliver for our members while Richard is out of the business.”

Annette Barnes, Leeds Building Society Interim CEO, said: “I and all of the Board members give Richard our full support. I’m very pleased to help the Society by taking on his CEO role on an interim basis.

“I look forward to working more closely with colleagues across the business in the coming months as we continue to deliver on our purpose and strategy.”