The incoming CEO of Cheadle-based lender Together Financial Services asserts that the 50-year-old company is at a crucial juncture and poised for continued expansion.
Richard Rowntree is set to assume the role of CEO and executive director at Together Financial Services in early 2025. The founder and principal shareholder, Henry Moser, will transition to the position of executive vice chairman, continuing to influence the company’s long-term strategy. With over 30 years of experience in the banking sector, Rowntree joins from Paragon Bank where he served as the managing director of the mortgages division. His extensive resume includes senior roles at the Bank of Ireland, RBS, Santander, Lloyds TSB, and Halifax. Rowntree has also chaired the UK Finance Mortgages Product and Service Board and was honoured with the Freedom of the City of London in 2023 for his efforts in promoting socio-economic diversity in the financial services sector.
Mike McTighe, chairman of Together, expressed enthusiasm for Rowntree’s appointment, emphasising his vast experience in banking and his potential to further augment the executive management team. McTighe stated, ‘We are delighted to welcome Richard as the new CEO of Together. He brings extensive experience in banking and will further strengthen our executive management team. Henry, our founder, is taking on the new role of executive vice chairman and I am confident he and Richard will form a great team to take the group forward.’
Henry Moser echoed this sentiment, highlighting the company’s significant milestone. He remarked, ‘I am excited to announce Richard as my successor as CEO, as we celebrate our 50th anniversary. Together is a special business with a clear purpose and a unique culture and I look forward to working closely with Richard as we enter the next stage of our exciting growth story.’
Rowntree himself expressed his enthusiasm about joining the company at such a momentous time. He commented, ‘I am thrilled to join Together at this pivotal moment, as the group celebrates 50 years of remarkable success. This is a business that has a market leading proposition, a clear focus on delivering positive outcomes for customers and is backed by an exceptional team of talented, experienced professionals. I am proud to have the opportunity to take Together to the next level and look forward to leading this continued success.’
The leadership transition at Together Financial Services marks a significant development for the company as it anticipates further growth under Rowntree’s guidance.