Manchester-based Co-operative Bank plc said on Tuesday it appointed its chief financial officer Nick Slape to the role of chief executive officer, effective October 31, 2020, subject to regulatory approval.
Slape succeeds Andrew Bester, who, as previously announced, “has decided to step down following the successful delivery of key elements of the bank’s transformation plan.”
The self-styled “ethical bank” has been recovering in recent years from a number of scandals that resulted in a rescue by a group of hedge funds.
“Nick joined the bank as chief financial officer in 2018 and was appointed to the board of directors in 2019,” said Co-operative Bank.
“He has worked closely with Andrew Bester in shaping the bank’s five year plan, putting in place the financial strategy which has seen the bank continue to de-risk its assets through the further securitisation of the optimum mortgage portfolio; to improve cost and treasury management; and complete the successful issuance of £200m of MREL qualifying debt in May 2019.
“As part of the executive team, Nick has helped lead the bank’s wider turnaround focused on implementing a ‘customer first’ approach to shape strategy, purpose, culture, and performance management.
“Nick has a career spanning over 37 years within financial services, both in the UK and overseas.
“Prior to joining the bank, he spent five years as chief financial officer of the commercial division at Lloyds Banking Group and has also held senior positions at a number of global investment banks including Deutsche Bank and Merrill Lynch.”
Slape said: “I am excited to be taking on the role of CEO and leading the bank into its next phase, having worked closely with Andrew to shape the strategy and deliver some key milestones together.
“Our franchise is proving resilient in these challenging times, and the steps made in completing major components of the transformation means we have a platform for growth.
“The next few years will continue to be key for The Co-operative Bank as we look to build on the progress to date and complete our turnaround plan.
“We have committed, purposeful colleagues and our shared priority will be to support our loyal customers through the uncertainty of the pandemic.
“Our distinct brand and co-operative values are fundamental to the success of this unique bank that is much loved by our colleagues and customers and I look forward to achieving a sustainable future.”