Unity Trust Bank appoints Kiran Samra as chief risk officer
Unity Trust Bank, a social impact bank that plays a strategic role in the UK economy, has announced the appointment of Kiran Samra as chief risk officer.
Leicester-born Kiran started her career in finance and chartered accountancy 18 years ago at Deloitte, before moving to the Co-operative Bank, and then joining Unity in 2018 as financial controller.
When she returned from maternity leave following her third child, Kiran wanted a fresh challenge and moved into risk management as head of operational risk.
She has achieved a wealth of industry qualifications during her career including being named in the global Top 10 cohort for the Institute of Risk Management’s International Certificate in Financial Services Risk Management in 2023.
Kiran’s promotion to chief risk officer reflects her strong contribution to Unity over the past seven years and her expertise in risk control and financial resilience.
In her new role Kiran is responsible for the bank’s overall risk management strategy and leads the risk, compliance, credit and legal functions.
Kiran said: “I joined Unity because of what the bank stands for. Its values and the positive contribution it makes to society really resonate with me. I value the inclusive and collaborative culture here and I’m delighted to take up the role of CRO.
“I’ve always had a ‘risk’ lens. It’s naturally intertwined in everything I do.
“Unity’s overall strategy is to make sure we grow in a safe manner, deliver for our customers and meet both expectations and regulations.
“Everyone has a role to play in risk management and operating in the safest, optimal way. We need to ensure we have a learning mindset and I will keep asking the questions and looking at what we can do better.”
Colin Fyfe, CEO at Unity Trust Bank, said: “With her expertise and business acumen Kiran was the standout candidate for this executive role.
“She has been a real asset to Unity, first in finance and then in risk, and this is another great example of how Unity invests in its people and supports career development.
“Kiran’s sharp focus and leadership skills as CRO will add real value to the bank.”