Manchester Building Society, which recently announced the relaunch of its brand, has appointed Deborah Walker (pictured) as its senior executive in the region.
Previously head of financial and professional services at MIDAS, Manchester’s inward investment agency, Walker has joined the society as development director.
She will be responsible for the launch of the first Manchester Building Society branch on King Street in the city centre, whilst building strong community connections and a deep understanding of Greater Manchester’s financial services requirements.
Walker has worked in Manchester her entire career, which spans more than 30 years and is a vocal advocate for the city region and its potential.
Prior to joining MIDAS, she held roles at financial and professional services firms, including HSBC and DWF, as well as in the higher education sector and at a housing association.
Walker said: “We’re on a mission to bring back the beloved Manchester Building Society brand. In a climate where branches are closing and services are moving online, people are crying out for high street support and financial advice.
“We’re launching a modern financial services provider that will keep pace with the digital revolution but also offer a deep human connection.
“We will be there for communities, offering products and services that people need and face-to-face advice that supports them through life’s biggest changes and challenges.
“While we have a stated aim to open new branches, we will be taking our time to understand what will work best on high streets across the region.
“Our approach will be authentically Greater Manchester, but we’ll also be taking inspiration from the North East’s innovative partnership model which sees branches opening in locations like libraries and community hubs.”
Andrew Haigh, Manchester Building Society chief executive, said: “We’re thrilled to have a leader of Deborah’s calibre spearheading Manchester Building Society’s investment in the North West.
“She brings a perfect combination of financial services expertise and frontline experience in Greater Manchester with both commercial and not-for-profit organisations.
“Deborah understands Mancunians, local issues and the regional policy agenda and operates with huge amounts of passion and drive.
“We look forward to continuing to expand the team under her leadership ensuring that as we grow, we respond to the needs and aspirations of the people of Greater Manchester.”
