Office address: High Street, Chalfont St. Giles, Buckinghamshire HP8 4QB
Website: www.bucksbs.co.uk
Year established: 1907
Company type: financial services
Employees: 50+
Expertise: buy-to-let mortgages, contractor mortgages, first-time buyer mortgages, family assist mortgages, later-life lending, self-build mortgages, non-standard credit mortgages
Parent company: N/A
CEO and key people: Dan Wass (CEO), Dick Jenkins (chair), Eric Leenders (vice-chair and NED), Scott Morton (finance director), Andy Lucas (senior independent director), Rebecca McBride (NED), Jo Carter (NED)
Financing status: N/A
Buckinghamshire Building Society is a mutual organisation headquartered in Chalfont St. Giles, Buckinghamshire, operating across the UK. Owned by its members and not shareholders, it primarily provides a variety of mortgage solutions and savings accounts. The society is comprised of over 50 employees and 11,400 members, with over £355 million in assets as of 2022.
Buckinghamshire Building Society was originally founded as Chalfont & District Permanent Building Society in 1907. Established by local businessmen in Chalfont St. Giles, the society sought to focus on growth and adaptation to meet changing customer needs. In 1960, the society moved to its current headquarters, and in 1961, they were renamed Buckinghamshire.
Buckinghamshire Building Society introduced its internet and postal accounts in 2007. The society celebrated its centenary that same year, commemorating its longevity and sustained relevance. More recently, in 2015, it launched a range of retirement mortgages, continuing its tradition of evolving with the times.
Buckinghamshire Building Society provides a range of mortgage-related services that cater to customers' needs. Key offerings include:
buy to let: offers mortgages for property investors, facilitating rental property acquisitions
standard residential: provides traditional home loans for residential properties
non-standard & impaired credit: caters to those with unique credit histories, offering tailored mortgage solutions
deposit lite: lowers the barrier for entry with reduced deposit requirements
joint borrower sole proprietor (JBSP): Enables family assistance in property purchase without shared ownership
JBSP deposit lite: combines the benefits of JBSP with low deposit needs
later life lending: specialises in mortgage products for retirees or those nearing retirement
SPV lets: tailored for rental properties held within a special purpose vehicle
The internal culture at Buckinghamshire Building Society is built on a foundation of teamwork and mutual respect. Their commitment to "doing the right thing" is a guiding principle that influences their operations and interactions with members, stakeholders, and the community. The society promotes these principles by also providing their employees comprehensive benefits, including:
Buckinghamshire Building Society places great importance on accessibility by demonstrating their commitment to ensuring that their services are user-friendly and accessible to all. The society has integrated within its online platform the Recite Me toolbar, an accessibility software that provides many options to help users’ content consumption. Here are some of the features it offers:
Buckinghamshire Building Society's commitment to the community is driven by a desire to contribute positively and support local initiatives. This engagement not only strengthens community ties but also reinforces the society's values of responsibility and support. Community initiatives include:
Heart of Bucks: engages in supporting local community projects
Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity: involved in fundraising activities
Rennie Grove Hospice Care: supports through various charity initiatives
Thames Valley Air Ambulance: participates in funding emergency medical services
local schools: engages in educational programs
local sports clubs: provides support to community sports teams and clubs
Dan Wass, CEO of Buckinghamshire Building Society, brings over two decades of financial expertise to his role. His career includes significant positions at Nationwide, Barclays, UK Bank, and Woolwich, shaping a robust understanding of banking, insurance, and investments. He holds a geography degree from the University of Leeds.
Supporting Wass are key figures who ensure the society's strategic goals are met:
Dick Jenkins, as chair of the society, provides leadership and governance oversight, ensuring strategic objectives align with member interests
Eric Leenders, as vice-chair and non-executive director, brings extensive banking experience, focusing on compliance and innovation
Scott Morton, finance director, manages financial strategy and operations, crucial for the society's economic health
Andy Lucas, serving as senior independent director, offers independent advice, enhancing the board's decision-making capabilities
Rebecca McBride, also a non-executive director, contributes to policy development and strategic planning
Jo Carter, as non-executive director, plays a key role in diversifying and strengthening the society’s service offerings
Buckinghamshire Building Society is advancing its digital footprint by launching new online services for ease of customer access. It also introduced an impaired credit product to support individuals in challenging economic conditions, expanding market inclusivity. The society's robust involvement in community projects and partnerships, like WizeUp, reinforces its commitment to local engagement and financial education.
Financial stability marked by positive results in 2023 enables ongoing enhancement of member services and community initiatives. Additionally, its support for Age UK Buckinghamshire and educational programs demonstrates a continued focus on community welfare and well-being. The society is likely set to grow significantly through new online services, broader loan options, and stronger community ties.
Borrowers can secure fixed rates until 2029
Mutual launches new range aimed at supporting young professionals
It also reduces rates by up to 0.25%
Integration applies to products up to 90% LTV
Responding to broker feedback, lender designs product for landlords with minor credit issues
Parties urged to engage with lenders and brokers, as General Election approaches
The reductions apply to standard residential, later life, first-time buyer, and expat BTL products
It launches a couple of five-year products
The tool streamlines interactions between brokers and lenders
Previously called Family Assist, Deposit Lite provides borrowers access to up to 100% of the purchase price
