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- Tasks: Lead the Board to shape the future of a purpose-driven mutual.
- Company: Teachers Building Society, dedicated to supporting teachers in home ownership.
- Benefits: Sector competitive remuneration and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for meaningful social impact while balancing commercial success.
- Why this job: Join a respected mutual at a pivotal moment in its evolution.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in UK retail financial services and board leadership.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: UK (Board meetings in Wimborne)
Time Commitment: 2–3 days per month
Remuneration: Sector competitive
Shape the future of a purpose-led mutual. Teachers Building Society is seeking an exceptional individual to join as Chair, leading the Board through its next phase of growth and purpose-driven impact. With a proud 60-year heritage, the Society is the only UK building society dedicated to serving a single profession—teachers—helping them to achieve the aspiration of home ownership through tailored mortgage and savings products. With a newly appointed CEO and a clear strategic direction, this is a compelling opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a distinctive and values-led mutual.
The Opportunity
As Chair, you will provide inclusive and effective leadership of the Board, ensuring strong governance, constructive challenge, and strategic clarity. You will work closely with the CEO and executive team to support sustainable, profitable growth while preserving the Society’s strong social purpose and member-first ethos.
This role requires approval under the Senior Managers & Certification Regime (SMCR), specifically SMF9 (Chair) and SMF13 (Chair of Nominations Committee).
The Candidate
We are seeking candidates with:
- Significant senior executive experience in UK retail financial services, particularly in mortgages and savings
- A strong track record of delivering profitable growth within a bank or building society
- Existing or prior Non-Executive Director experience, ideally including Chair or committee leadership roles
- Experience working within a PRA/FCA regulated environment and with the credibility to secure regulatory approval (SMF9 & SMF13)
- A deep understanding of governance, risk, and board dynamics
Just as importantly, you will bring:
- A genuine commitment to mutuality and member-focused organisations
- A strong alignment with the Society’s mission to support teachers in achieving home ownership
- The ability to balance commercial acumen with social purpose
Timing & Process
We recognise that many high-calibre candidates may currently be committed to other board roles. We are therefore open to discussions with individuals whose availability aligns with a future transition.
Formal selection process: Q4 2026
Appointment commencement: February 2027
Why Join?
This is a rare opportunity to chair a highly distinctive, purpose-driven financial institution at an important moment in its evolution. You will help guide a respected mutual that combines commercial discipline with meaningful social impact, supporting a profession that underpins society.
To Apply
For a confidential discussion or to express interest, please contact: Anthony McAlister
Chair and Non-Executive Director employer: Thorburn McAlister
Contact Detail:
Thorburn McAlister Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair and Non-Executive Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the financial services sector, especially those with experience in mutuals or building societies. A personal introduction can make all the difference when you're aiming for a role as significant as Chair.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those boardroom discussions! Brush up on governance and risk management topics relevant to the Teachers Building Society. Being well-versed will not only boost your confidence but also show your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for education! Since this role is all about supporting teachers, make sure to highlight any previous work or initiatives that align with this mission. It’s all about connecting your experience with their purpose.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair and Non-Executive Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for supporting teachers and mutuality shine through. We want to see how your values align with our mission at Teachers Building Society.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to showcase your senior executive experience in UK retail financial services, especially in mortgages and savings. We’re looking for a strong track record, so don’t hold back on those achievements!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and how you can lead our Board effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure everything is in order for consideration.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thorburn McAlister
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of Teachers Building Society's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their products, especially in mortgages and savings, as well as their unique position serving teachers. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to their purpose.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your senior executive experience in UK retail financial services. Highlight specific examples where you've delivered profitable growth or led a board effectively. Be ready to explain how your background aligns with the role of Chair and how you can contribute to the Society’s strategic direction.
✨Emphasise Governance Knowledge
Since this role involves strong governance and board dynamics, brush up on your knowledge of the Senior Managers & Certification Regime (SMCR). Be prepared to discuss your experience in regulated environments and how you’ve navigated governance challenges in previous roles.
✨Align with Their Values
Demonstrate your commitment to mutuality and member-focused organisations during the interview. Share your thoughts on balancing commercial acumen with social purpose, and how you envision supporting teachers in achieving home ownership through your leadership.