Nottingham Building Society has appointed Russ Thornton (pictured) as its new chief technology officer (CTO).
Thornton joined the mutual in March 2025 as a strategic advisor, coming from Shawbrook Bank, where he led a multi-year digital transformation from strategy to execution.
Thornton brings 34 years of experience in digital transformation, having worked at Cofunds, Legal & General, Aegon, and WorldRemit.
He will be responsible for delivering the society’s core banking and mortgage transformation strategies.
Thornton said: “I’m extremely excited to join the Society at such a transformative point to continue to deliver on its purpose and promise to its members and communities.
“That sense of purpose and its ambition to serve members who don’t fit the traditional mould was really attractive to be part of.
“Under Paul’s guidance, the team has made fantastic progress modernising its mortgage and savings platforms, and I’m looking forward to building on that momentum.”
Thornton added: “My focus will be on ensuring we have the right capabilities, controls and culture in place to grow with confidence and deliver great outcomes for our members and broker partners.”
Sue Hayes, CEO at Nottingham Building Society, said: “Russ brings deep expertise and a proven track record of delivering digital transformation at pace and scale.
“Since joining us earlier this year, he’s had a great impact, and I know he will continue to do so as he leads our transformation programme.
“He has successfully delivered complex transformation across banks, fintechs, and global financial services institutions, including most recently at Shawbrook, where his work played a key role in more than doubling the bank’s loan book and deposits while radically improving digital experiences for customers and brokers alike.”
Hayes added: “This is a pivotal moment for the Society pivotal as we prepare to launch new technology that will transform the mortgage experience for brokers, borrowers, and colleagues alike.
“Russ shares our values, our purpose, and our belief in building a modern mutual that serves real lives.
“With over three decades of experience, Russ has led enterprise-wide technology strategies, built and scaled high-performing engineering and product teams, and driven operational excellence through innovation.”
She said: “He brings not only technical depth, but also the leadership and cultural insight needed to embed lasting change that puts the customer first.”
“We pass our thanks on to Paul Howley for everything he has done during his time with us.
“Paul’s legacy is not only the systems and structures he helped deliver, but the culture he helped shape.”
Additionally, Aaron Shinwell, formerly commercial director – homes at Santander UK, will start as chief lending officer at Nottingham Building Society in August.
