For the first time in its history, The Cumberland has appointed a woman as chair of its board.
Jackie Arnold will become chair of the building society following its annual general meeting in July.
It is the latest chapter in a prestigious career for Jackie, which has included being head of strategy at BAE Systems in Barrow. She has also held the position of vice chair of Cumbria’s Local Enterprise Partnership, where she chaired the investment panel as they funded and oversaw the delivery of £200 million of projects to develop the region.
In 2016, Jackie was awarded an MBE from the Queen for services to the Cumbrian economy.
She has been a part of the Cumberland team as a non-executive director since 2018 and the people, remuneration and culture committee chair since 2019.
Jackie said: “As a passionate advocate for Cumbria, I’m delighted to have the opportunity to step into the role of chair of the Cumberland board.
“I’ve enjoyed my time to date as a non-executive director and I’m really looking forward to this next chapter. I’ll be proud to work alongside the talented people at the Cumberland, and on its board, to lead the society through the coming years.”
Jackie brings more than 40 years’ experience in business and financial management, including being a qualified accountant, and is an honorary fellow of the University of Cumbria.
Jackie will succeed John Hooper, who will be stepping down as chair after five years in the role and nearly nine years as a non-executive director.
John leaves The Cumberland after a tenure in which his contributions helped lead the society through various phases of growth and transition, as well as navigating uncertain times during the pandemic and ongoing cost of living crisis.
John said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to steward an organisation with such a strong purpose and rich history through a period when it has set course to a sustainable future, enabling it to continue to be a key provider of financial services to the people of Cumbria, southern Scotland and surrounding areas.”
Eric Gunn will also retire from his role as non-executive director, chair of board risk committee and senior independent director after almost seven years of service.
Eric’s strategic insights and dedication have been instrumental in The Cumberland’s success, the society said.
Joining the board as a non-executive director and as chair of board risk committee is Cameron Marr, who brings with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise, having spent 40 years working in banking and financial services sectors around the globe.
Cameron said The Cumberland’s kinder banking approach and culture were key reasons for his decision to join. He added: “There is an overt commitment to its community and the collective desire to provide the best it can to all of its customers.
“It’s embedded in the culture, and in a way, it’s more than kindness – it’s about respect and being there for what people need. The Cumberland demonstrates values that align strongly with where I think banking should be”.
Des Moore, CEO of The Cumberland expressed his gratitude to those leaving and his optimism for the future. He said: “We are deeply thankful to John and Eric for their extraordinary service and dedication to The Cumberland.
“Their leadership has been pivotal in shaping our company’s direction and success. We would also like to warmly welcome Jackie and Cameron to their positions and look forward to their contributions in driving the company forward.”
Also on the board are Richard Ellison, Kelli Fairbrother, Vicky Bruce, Mark Stanger and Anna Barsby.
