Nottingham Building Society appoints Richard Fearon as a Non-Executive Director

Nottingham Building Society, the mortgages and savings mutual, has announced the appointment of Richard Fearon to its Board as a Non Executive Director, with effect from 1st September 2026. 

Richard will take over the position of Senior Independent Director from Peter O’Donnell, the Chair of the Audit Committee and interim Senior Independent Director, subject to regulatory approval. Peter will remain on the Board and continue to chair the Audit Committee. 

Richard is a highly respected retail banking leader with more than 20 years’ experience across executive and board level roles within the UK banking and mutual sectors. He brings deep expertise in mortgages, savings, 3 strategy, risk management, transformation and governance, alongside a strong understanding of balance-sheet-led financial services. 

He spent ten years at the Leeds Building Society, where he held executive roles including Chief Commercial Officer, Deputy Chief Executive, and Chief Executive Officer. During this time, he played a key role in the Society’s growth and led major technology and operational transformation programmes to enhance customer and colleague experience. 

Earlier in his career, Richard held senior roles at Lloyds Banking Group, building strong foundations in retail credit, pricing, and portfolio management. He has also served on the main Board of UK Finance, where he chaired the Audit & Risk Committee and the Mortgage Board. 

Robin Ashton, Chair of Nottingham Building Society, said: “We are delighted to welcome Richard to the Board of Nottingham Building Society. He brings extensive leadership experience from across retail banking and the mutual sector, alongside deep knowledge of mortgages and savings, and a strong track record in transformation and governance. 

“Richard’s appointment as Senior Independent Director will add significant strength to our Board as we continue to deliver our strategy as a modern, member owned organisation. 

Richard Fearon added: “I am delighted to be joining the Board of Nottingham Building Society and to take on the role of Senior Independent Director later this year. Nottingham has a strong mutual heritage and a clear commitment to serving members in a responsible and sustainable way. I have watched the Society’s transformation with real interest over recent years and admire its strong sense of purpose and ambition. I look forward to working with the Board at this important stage in the Society’s evolution.”