Mr Bennett has experience of retail banking, strategy, risk-management, corporate activity and organisation, operational and structural change gained from his long career in financial services. Prior to becoming Board Chair in 2020, David had been Deputy Board Chair since 2015 and therefore has the experience of the Group and track record needed to support the Board and executive in delivering the medium and longer-term strategy. His business career includes time as Group Finance Director of Alliance & Leicester plc for six years before becoming Group Chief Executive. Following the acquisition of Alliance & Leicester plc by Banco Santander he was Executive Director onBoard of Abbey National plc. He was formerly Chairman of Homeserve Membership Limited and Together Financial Services Limited, was a Non-Executive Director on the Board of Bank of Ireland (UK) PLC, Chairman of Ashmore Group plc and has Non-Executive Director experience in listed environments which has included easyJet plc and CMC Markets PLC. During his time at easyJet plc, David advocated research into alternatives to jet fuel and reducing fuel consumption in order to reduce the impact aviation has on climate change. David has experience working with various charities, supporting and promoting sustainability throughout the industry. External appointments include Chairman of Allfunds Group plc, Non-Executive Director of PayPal (Europe) S.a.r.l. et Cie, S.C.A., Chair of Paypal UK Ltd and Non-Executive Board member of Department for Work and Pensions. He is member of Governance and Risk Committee.
