Market Harborough Building Society (MHBS) has appointed Lesley Vernon as its Chief Engagement Officer, a newly created executive position. In this role, Lesley will be responsible for bringing together the Society’s members, community partners, and colleagues, and engaging them in the implementation of its ambitious Thrive! Agenda. This agenda focuses on growing its savings and mortgage membership, investing in essential community projects, and becoming an employer of choice in the region.
Since the launch of the Thrive Agenda earlier this year, MHBS has already invested £2m in a unique initiative to purchase six homes, providing affordable housing for those in need, and has donated over £100k to local food banks to support individuals affected by rising living costs. Additionally, the Society has recently announced its Charity of the Year, Cransley Hospice, selected by its members.
Iain Kirkpatrick, Chief Executive at MHBS, expressed his personal satisfaction in welcoming Lesley to the team in this strategically devised role. He highlighted the significant progress made through the Thrive Agenda, emphasizing the value of investing in local causes. He believes that by truly connecting their members, community partners, and colleagues, the Society can achieve even greater outcomes, ultimately aligning with the original purpose behind the establishment of building societies.
Lesley shared her enthusiasm for joining the Society in this new capacity, especially during such an exciting period. She perceives it as a remarkable opportunity to unite everyone in the MHBS family – members, community partners, and colleagues – in a truly distinctive manner. Their collective endeavor will focus on improving the lives of individuals within their communities.
With over 25 years of experience in the financial services sector, Lesley joins MHBS from The Nottingham Building Society, where she served as the Head of Customer. Prior to that, she held senior positions at other financial institutions, including Santander and Alliance & Leicester. Furthermore, she serves as the Chair of Trustees for the Stonebridge City Farm charity.
