Secure Trust Bank (STB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jim Appleby as Chief Operating Officer, subject to regulatory approval. Jim will join the Group on Monday 17 November, succeeding Katie Docherty, who leaves after four years of dedicated service.
Jim brings over two decades of senior leadership experience in the financial services sector, both in the UK and internationally. Most recently, Jim served as CEO of Intrum UK, where he led the successful integration of Arrow Global UK following Intrum's £160m acquisition. Under his leadership, the combined business delivered significant operational efficiencies, enhanced customer outcomes, and achieved strong revenue growth. Prior to this, Jim was CEO of Arrow Global UK, where he oversaw strategy, growth, and cultural transformation, and played a key role in leading the business through its successful sale to Intrum.
Earlier in his career Jim spent over a decade at Vanquis Bank where, as Chief Operating Officer and Executive Committee member, he helped grow the business from start-up to FTSE 100 status. His achievements included delivering digital innovation, improving customer satisfaction, and building a highly engaged workforce. Jim has also held senior roles at Barclays Bank in both the UK and internationally and founded a credit card business in the US.
Welcoming Jim's appointment, Ian Corfield, CEO of Secure Trust Bank, said: "I am delighted to welcome Jim to Secure Trust Bank. Jim's proven leadership, deep operational expertise, and track record of delivering transformation and growth across a range of financial services organisations will be invaluable as we continue to deliver on our strategy and ambitions. I look forward to working closely with Jim as we focus on delivering value for our shareholders and customers."
Commenting on his appointment, Jim Appleby said: "I am excited to be joining Secure Trust Bank at such an important time in its journey. The Group has a strong reputation for delivering for its customers, and I look forward to working with Ian and the wider team to continue driving innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable growth."
Jim holds a Master's degree in Information Management and a Diploma in Financial Crime.
He was also on the Board of the Credit Services Association as a Non-Executive Director for four years, representing an industry that returns £4bn annually to the UK economy.