Recognise Bank appoints new CEO

Digital SME lender and savings bank, Recognise Bank has appointed Jean Murphy as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). 

Murphy brings over 25 years of experience of banking and capital markets for several leading global institutions. She is also experienced in building businesses, both within financial institutions and having founded and managed a successful wealth management firm. The appointment is subject to final approval by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA).

Ms Murphy takes up the role after Jason Oakley, Recognise Bank’s co-founder, stepped down in March 2022 having led the Bank from a fledgling idea to a fully authorised commercial lender and savings bank.

Fellow co-founder Bryce Glover took over as interim CEO while the search for a new Chief Executive was ongoing. He will now return to his former role as Deputy CEO.

Launched in November 2020, Recognise achieved £100 million in commercial lending and £100 million in business and personal savings deposits since receiving its full banking licence in September 2021. Jean will now lead the Bank as it further develops it digital capability to create new and improved products and services, while maintaining the relationship banking approach that has proven so popular with UK SMEs.

Phil Jenks, Chair of the City of London Group, the parent company of Recognise Bank, said “Jean brings huge experience of banking and capital markets to this role, along with a vital entrepreneurial spirit gained from building her own successful company, which gives her an appreciation of the challenges that business owners face.”

“On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to welcome Jean as CEO and look forward to working with her in the exciting years ahead.”