New Triodos UK CEO promises bank will ‘make money work for positive change in society’

January 28, 2025
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The chief operating officer of Bristol-headquartered ethical finance firm Triodos Bank UK is to become its next CEO in a move that coincides with its 30th anniversary this year.

Mark Clayton’s appointment comes less than four months after the trailblazing bank announced the departure of its current Chief Executive Officer Bevis Watts, who has spent 10 years in the role. 

Mark, pictured, joined Triodos UK last summer and has a wealth of experience in the banking sector, having previously served as COO at Unity Trust Bank, like Triodos a member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV).

He previously spent 23 years at HSBC, where he held various senior roles and led large teams within the retail banking division, and has also spent time away from mainstream banking to focus on roles in values-based organisations.

Mark said he was excited for the opportunities ahead at Triodos Bank UK – one of only three banks to hold the Which? Eco Provider accreditation.

“We have an excellent leadership team in place working to deliver on our mission of making money work for positive change in society,” he added.

“I am driven by a strong desire to protect the world around us and create a society that values dignity for all, empowerment and strong communities – and hugely honoured to be given the opportunity to do so at Triodos.”

Triodos Bank UK, a certified B Corporation, has more than 300 staff based in its Bristol headquarters, and its offices in London and Edinburgh.

With a balance sheet of around £2bn, Triodos UK offers personal current accounts, savings and investment products alongside business savings and specialist sustainable finance for organisations committed to positive cultural, social or environmental impact, such as Neal’s Yard Remedies, Riverford Organics, Forest e-bikes and Ecotricity.

Triodos Bank UK chair Gary Page, who was recently re-appointed to his role for a final term of three years, said it had been crucial for the bank to find a new CEO with the right values and passion for ethical and sustainable banking, as well as a strong understanding of its customers and a rapidly changing banking landscape.

“Mark has made a really positive impact since joining Triodos and we are confident he is the right person to lead the bank forward and deliver the impact we want to have,” he added.

“My thanks go to Bevis for his contribution over many years and for his commitment to assist in the smooth transition over the coming months. We wish him well for the future.”

Triodos Bank UK, which is also recognised as the UK’s No.1 ethical bank by Ethical Consumer magazine for its market-leading transparency and positive investment strategy, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Dutch-incorporated Triodos Bank N.V.

Mark’s appointment is subject to formal approval by UK banking regulators. Triodos said it is anticipated he will start in the role in early summer.

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