HSBC Holdings plc announced that Ian Stuart, currently CEO of HSBC UK, has been appointed as Group Customer and Culture Director.

HSBC said this is a newly created role, reporting into group CEO Georges Elhedery “to ensure the customers’ voice is embedded at the heart of the bank’s strategy and that the financial needs of customers are being met through the development of market-leading products and propositions globally.”

The group added: “Ian will take on this role, subject to the appointment of his successor as CEO of HSBC UK. A process to appoint Ian’s successor is underway and an update will be provided on this, and Ian’s start date for his new role, in due course.

“This appointment will support the continued execution of the bank’s strategy which will see HSBC become a simpler, more dynamic, agile organisation by operating through four key businesses.

“These changes are being completed at pace and will create a more focused organisation built on its core strengths, delivering strategic growth for our customers and shareholders.”

Stuart joined HSBC as head of its Commercial Banking business in the UK and Europe in 2014. He has more than 40 years’ experience in the banking industry. Before joining HSBC, Stuart led the Corporate Banking business at Barclays for six years, and held many roles in Business Banking during his 22 years at the Royal Bank of Scotland, now called NatWest Group.

CEO Elhedery said: “A customer-centric, high-performance culture is the foundation of delivering exceptional outcomes for our customers. It builds trust, enhances experiences, and ensures customer satisfaction whilst empowering our colleagues to meet customer needs, drive innovation, and unlock new opportunities. This is vital to the long-term success of HSBC.

“In this new role, Ian will consistently challenge the Group Operating Committee in shaping the culture, ensuring that the voice of the customer informs every decision and action we take. I look forward to seeing Ian’s impact across the Group.”