Former NatWest director joins YBS as chief commercial officer

Simon Watson has joined Yorkshire Building Society as its new chief commercial officer.

He will lead teams responsible for mortgages, savings and marketing and digital channels.

He joins the mutual from NatWest Group, where he has worked since 2011. Most recently in the role of managing director of affluent banking & investing, he held a number of senior leadership positions spanning personal and private banking, digital transformation, corporate affairs, brand and customer propositions.

Simon said: “I’m thrilled to join Yorkshire Building Society and experience the unwavering dedication of the team to our customers. With initiatives like our £6,250 cashback mortgages, and our £5k deposit mortgage for first-time buyers, we are already giving customers real help with real life. Building on our 160-year history, I am excited to be part of the team shaping the future.”

Susan Allen, CEO of Yorkshire Building Society, commented: “Simon combines creative, commercial and strategic expertise with a strong focus on colleague and customer engagement.

“He understands and shares our vision for the Society and I am confident he will help drive our success as we continue to grow and support more people to get the most from their savings and find a place to call home.”