Skipton Building Society said it will appoint Gwyn Burr as its new chair on April 26 when Robert East retires from the role.
“Robert has served the Society’s board as chair for the past five years and before that as a non-executive director for five years,” said Skipton.
“Following his successful stewardship as chair, in 2020 Robert agreed to an additional year’s service as the pandemic led to a suspension of the process to find his successor.
“After a national search the Society found their ideal candidate living in Yorkshire.
“A graduate of the University of Bradford, Gwyn brings wide ranging executive experience in marketing and customer service, thanks to the director-level positions she’s held at Asda and Sainsbury’s.
“Gwyn also brings significant financial services experience, having previously held non-executive positions with Principality Building Society, Sainsbury’s Bank PLC and the Financial Ombudsman Service.”
East said: “I’m delighted to announce Gwyn’s appointment as chair of Skipton Building Society.
“Her extensive executive and non-executive experience across a number of different sectors and financial services will be invaluable as the Society continues to grow and develop.
“Gwyn is the first woman to chair Skipton in its 169-year history and was born and lives in Yorkshire close to Skipton.
“She combines a straightforward and thoughtful approach with a focus on delivering excellent customer service and leading people in a way that engages and enables them to deliver for customers.
“These are very much in line with Skipton’s values, and I’m sure under Gwyn’s leadership the Society will continue to execute its strategy for the benefit of members.”
Burr said: ”It is with great pride that I look to take up my role at Skipton.
“Already an existing customer, I have experienced first-hand the fantastic service the Society offers.
“As customer behaviours in dealing with their financial affairs in a post-pandemic world continues to evolve, I look forward to working with the team in meeting the new challenges this brings.
“I can already see how the Society’s great people and proposition mean it is well-placed to excel in the years ahead.”
Skipton said on January 24 that after almost 30 years with the business, 13 of them as group chief executive, David Cutter will step down from his role with effect from the Society’s AGM in April.
Skipton, the UK’s fourth largest building society, saw its savings balances grow 7.7% to £18.7 billion in 2020 while its total assets increased 10.9% during the year to £28.3 billion.
Its 2020 profit before tax fell to £118.8 million from £153.2 million.