At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and evolve a relationship-led banking model for SME and Mid-Corporate customers.
- Company: Nationwide, a modern mutual on a mission to transform UK business banking.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to shape the future of banking.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to customer-first values and sustainable growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a career-defining opportunity to impact UK businesses positively.
- Qualifications: Senior commercial banking experience with a focus on relationship management and team leadership.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 ÂŁ per year.
Following the acquisition of Virgin Money, Nationwide is on a bold journey to build a credible, relationship‑led Business Bank, combining strong customer advocacy, deep sector and local knowledge, sustainable growth and disciplined risk management aligned to the benefits of being a modern mutual.
We are seeking an exceptional Director of Business Relationships to lead and evolve our relationship‑led banking model for SME and Mid‑Corporate customers. This is a high‑profile senior leadership role with end‑to‑end accountability for building and leading a national team of local Business Relationship Managers and includes specialist propositions spanning financial risk management and cash management solutions.
As a key member of the Business Banking Leadership Team, you will be part of a career-defining opportunity to bring the modern mutual model to UK business banking. You will define and execute the relationship banking strategy, shape the operating model, deepen long‑term customer partnerships and deliver strong risk‑adjusted returns across lending, deposits and fee income.
Building and leading a large, geographically dispersed Relationship Management team, you will set the standard for customer outcomes, commercial performance, conduct and credit discipline. Sitting at the heart of Nationwide’s ambition to be a trusted, long‑term partner for growing UK businesses, you will work closely with Credit, Product, Operations and Digital colleagues, to shape how relationship banking is delivered.
You will ensure propositions are differentiated, scalable and responsive to evolving customer needs, while maintaining robust governance and regulatory compliance.
We are looking for a senior commercial banking leader with deep experience of relationship‑led SME and Mid‑Corporate banking, strong credit and balance‑sheet acumen, and a proven track record of leading large teams through transformation and growth. Just as important is a leadership style that reflects Nationwide’s values: customer‑first, inclusive, collaborative and principled.
Director of Business Relationships employer: Nationwide
Contact Detail:
Nationwide Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Business Relationships
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. We all know that who you know can sometimes be just as important as what you know, so don’t be shy about reaching out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their values, mission, and recent news. We want to see you shine and show how your experience aligns perfectly with their goals!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with your responses. We’re here to help you refine your pitch and make sure you’re ready to impress.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. We believe that a little courtesy can set you apart from the competition.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Business Relationships
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Director of Business Relationships. Highlight your experience in relationship-led banking and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at Nationwide.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about building relationships in banking and how you can contribute to our vision. Be sure to mention specific examples of your past successes in similar roles.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: We’re looking for someone who embodies our values: customer-first, inclusive, collaborative, and principled. In your application, share stories that demonstrate your leadership style and how you've led teams through transformation and growth.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Nationwide
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the relationship-led banking model and how it applies to SME and Mid-Corporate customers. Brush up on Nationwide's recent acquisition of Virgin Money and how that shapes their strategy. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your genuine interest and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role is all about leading a large team, so be prepared to share examples of your leadership style. Highlight how you've successfully led teams through transformation and growth in the past, and how your approach aligns with Nationwide’s values of being customer-first, inclusive, collaborative, and principled.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think of scenarios where you've had to manage risk or navigate complex customer relationships. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and effectively.
✨Connect with Their Vision
Demonstrate your understanding of Nationwide's ambition to be a trusted partner for UK businesses. Discuss how you can contribute to building long-term customer partnerships and delivering strong risk-adjusted returns. Showing that you align with their vision will set you apart from other candidates.