David Landen has been appointed as chief executive of Hodge with immediate effect.

It comes after Steve Pateman stepped down from the role in March to join hotel business Arora Group as CEO.

Landen has been acting chief executive since Pateman’s departure and is one of the lender’s longest-serving members of staff after joining the bank in 2002.

Prior to his current role, Landen was appointed deputy chief executive in January 2019 and chief financial officer in 2011.

He is a graduate of Cardiff University and won Young Finance Director of the Year at the 2013 Finance Awards Wales.

Landen says:“It is a huge honour and privilege to be asked to lead Hodge during such an important time. Hodge has a fantastic heritage built over the last 60 years and with its unique ownership structure it enables us to build a sustainable business founded on our commitment to our customers.

“With careful planning and a responsible strategy, I believe we cannot just respond to the challenges created by Covid-19, but really thrive in the new environment. 

“I have a clear vision, focusing on Hodge’s strengths as a specialist lender and savings and annuities business; delivering for our customers through designing great products and providing fantastic customer experiences with Hodge colleagues being key to this success.”

Hodge chairman Graeme Hughes says: “David has been interim CEO during some of the most challenging times for the business and the economy. 

“His clear and strong leadership throughout 2020 has demonstrated to the board that there is no one better placed to step into this role than David.

“Appointing David permanently as our CEO allows us at Hodge to turn our attention to pursuing our growth strategy and plan for the future knowing we are in safe hands.”