The Co-operative Bank has appointed Andrea Melville as chief executive officer.

Melville, who is the bank’s first female CEO, has also been named group chief commercial officer at Coventry Building Society, with responsibility for the group’s trading performance and supporting its ongoing integration plans.

She brings more than 20 years of experience in financial services in the UK and abroad, including personal, commercial and private banking.

Previously, she has held senior roles at Santander and Lloyds Bank. 

Melville’s appointment follows the announcement of Jo Kenrick as chair. Kenrick’s career spans over 35 years and multiple sectors, including non-executive experience in utilities, financial services and property, and executive experience in retail, home improvement and house-building. 

Commenting on her appointment, Melville says: “I’m honoured to join Coventry Building Society and The Co-operative Bank at such an exciting time. The values and strong heritage of both organisations align closely with my own and I’m looking forward to sharing my expertise in both retail and business banking and driving positive change for our customers, members and communities.”

“I’m really looking forward to working with Jo and the wider leadership team to build on our strength and successes.”

Kenrick adds: “We are proud to welcome Andrea as the new CEO of The Co-operative Bank. Her track record of innovation, strategic thinking and customer-first leadership makes her the ideal person to guide us through the next chapter.”

“While our focus remains firmly on delivering value for our members and customers, this moment also stands as a symbol of what inclusive leadership can look like at the very top of UK financial services.”

In January, Coventry Building Society announced it had completed its acquisition of the Co-operative Bank for £780m in cash.