NEWCASTLE Building Society has appointed a new chief executive.

Andrew Haigh, the Society’s chief operating officer will take on the role following Jim Willens’ decision to step back from full time executive work after five years at the helm.

Mr Haigh, will take up the post from May 1, having already worked at the Society in his role since January 2014.

Mr Haigh, who is from Yorkshire but now lives in the North-East, brings a wide range of business experience, with over 20 years in the mutual sector, including more than 10 years as chief executive of Engage Mutual Assurance. His early career was spent in marketing and customer service roles with British Airways, Barclays and National & Provincial Building Society.

Phil Moorhouse, chairman, said: “Andrew brings significant experience of the mutual sector to our business, as well as a strong customer focus. Having also been with the Society for more than 15 months he has a solid understanding of our strategy and ambitions moving forward and is ideally placed to lead the company.

“I’d like to take the opportunity to thank Jim on behalf of the Board for his expert guidance in helping to direct the business over the past five years. His expertise and prudent leadership, over what has been a difficult recession for the UK, has helped our Society make continued and steady progress, which has created a great foundation upon which to build and strengthen our organisation further.”