Tandem Bank appoints Stephen Jones as new chair, signalling next stage in growth journey
Tandem Bank has announced key changes to its Board as it positions itself for future growth.
Stephen Jones has been appointed chair of Tandem to lead the bank in its next stage of growth. An industry veteran, Stephen is currently executive chair of Investment Banking at Panmure Liberum and brings decades of senior leadership experience from across the UK banking sector, including senior executive roles at Santander and Barclays, as well as being the inaugural chief executive of UK Finance.
Stephen succeeds Paul Pester, who steps down after three profitable and successful years as chair, overseeing the successful integration of Tandem and Oplo and strengthening the bank’s leadership team, including appointing new CEO Neil Chandler in 2025.
Clive Kornitzer will also join the Board as an independent non-executive director and brings more than 30 years’ commercial experience, including over 20 years at Board level. With senior roles held at Santander and One Savings Bank, he was most recently group chief operating officer at OSB Group. Clive replaces Matthew Donaldson who steps down after nearly four years having brought significant consumer finance, digital and growth expertise to the Board.
Together, these heavyweight appointments reinforce Tandem’s long-term growth strategy and focus on delivering value for customers.
Stephen Jones, Tandem’s new chair commented: “Tandem has built a robust, profitable business with a clear purpose and an exciting future. I’m delighted to be joining as Chair and look forward to working with Neil, the Board and the wider organisation as Tandem embarks on its next chapter.”
Neil Chandler, CEO of Tandem, commented: “I’m delighted we’re announcing a strong series of appointments to Tandem’s Board, underlining the exciting future that lies ahead for the business. Stephen and Clive add significant depth to an already strong Board. Their insight, perspective and judgement from the top of the industry will be invaluable, and I’m thrilled to welcome them both to Tandem.
“I’d like to give a special thanks to both Paul and Matthew for their contributions to Tandem. They step down at a positive point for the business and we’re grateful for their insight during their time on the Board.
“With a talented leadership team and an experienced Board driving strategy at the helm, Tandem is set to accelerate into its next chapter of growth in 2026.”
These changes build on the recent enhancements to Tandem’s leadership team, including the arrival of CEO Neil Chandler in June 2025, Ryan Heaps’ promotion to chief financial officer in November 2025 and the appointment of Russell Strevens as chief technology officer in December 2025. All appointments bring deep banking, fintech and technology expertise to support the bank’s ambitions.