Credit, Collections & Insolvency News
GB Bank has announced that Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mike Says will retire from his role at the end of April 2026, he will be succeeded by Eddie Trahearn, currently Chief Strategy & Financial Officer, subject to regulatory approval.
Since joining in 2021, Says has overseen rapid growth and transformation. Under his leadership, GB Bank secured its full banking licence, raised growth capital to support expansion, grew the lending book to approximately £800m, built an institutional funding-line franchise supported by a diversified deposit platform, and increased the balance sheet by 7x to over £2bn. The Bank has also reached profitability and is now operating on a self-sustaining footing. Says will retain board roles within the Group, providing continuing knowledge and guidance.
Trahearn joined GB Bank in 2021 as Head of Treasury & Funding and has played a central role in shaping the Bank’s strategy, funding model and growth trajectory. He previously held senior treasury and balance sheet roles at Belmont Green, LendInvest and Charter Savings Bank.
Alongside the CEO transition, GB Bank is strengthening its executive team. Pankaj Thukral, Chief Lending Officer, will broaden his role to become deputy CEO. Adam Royal, currently Head of Finance, will step into the role of Chief Financial Officer, and Tom Graham, Group Treasurer, will become Chief Capital and Treasury Officer.
Huw Morgan, GB Bank Chairman said “Mike has led GB Bank through a period of exceptional progress, taking the business from pre-authorisation through to profitability and establishing a strong platform for sustainable growth. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank him for his outstanding leadership.
We are delighted to appoint Eddie as CEO. His deep understanding of the business and strong strategic and financial credentials makes him ideally placed to lead GB Bank through its next phase.”
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