GB Bank has announced that its CEO, Mike Says, will retire from his role at the end of April, having led the Bank from pre-authorisation to profitability over the past five years.
He will be succeeded by Eddie Trahearn (pictured), currently chief strategy and financial officer, subject to regulatory approval.
Mike will retain board roles within the group, providing continuing knowledge and guidance.
Eddie Trahearn joined GB Bank in 2021 as head of treasury and funding and has played a central role in shaping the Bank’s strategy, funding model and growth trajectory. He previously held senior treasury and balance sheet roles at Belmont Green, LendInvest and Charter Savings Bank.
Alongside the CEO transition, GB Bank is strengthening its executive team. Pankaj Thukral, chief lending officer, will broaden his role to become deputy CEO. Adam Royal, currently head of finance, will step into the role of chief financial officer, and Tom Graham, group treasurer, will become chief capital and treasury officer.
Huw Morgan, GB Bank chairman, commented: “Mike has led GB Bank through a period of exceptional progress, taking the business from pre-authorisation through to profitability and establishing a strong platform for sustainable growth. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank him for his outstanding leadership.
"We are delighted to appoint Eddie as CEO. His deep understanding of the business and strong strategic and financial credentials makes him ideally placed to lead GB Bank through its next phase.”
Eddie Trahearn said: “I would like to thank Mike for his leadership and for the platform he has built. We have achieved a great deal in a short period of time and have significant opportunities ahead.
I am excited to take on the role of CEO, supported by a strong and experienced executive team.”
Mike Says added: “I joined GB Bank with a clear objective: to build and scale a bank from pre-authorisation through to sustainable profitability. Having achieved what I set out to do, with the Bank now on a strong and self-sustaining footing, this is the right time for me to step down from the executive role and begin the next chapter of my career.
"Eddie is the right person to lead GB Bank forward, and I am confident the Bank has a very bright future.”
