Alison Rose named asRBS CEO

Rose (pictured) will replace Ross McEwan.

Alison Rose named asRBS CEO

The Royal Bank of Scotland Group (RBS) has appointed Alison Rose as chief executive officer and executive director.

Ross McEwan will formally step down as chief executive on 31 October.

Rose (pictured), currently deputy chief executive at NatWest Holdings and chief executive for commercial and private banking, will then take up the position on 1 November.

Howard Davies, RBS chairman, said: “I am delighted that we have appointed Alison as our new chief executive.

“She brings extensive experience and a track record of success from her previous roles at the bank. Following a rigorous internal and external process, I am confident that we have appointed the best person for the job.

"I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Ross, on behalf of the Board, for his leadership and commitment during his time as chief executive and wish him the very best for the future.

“Ross leaves a strong platform for his successor; a bank that has refocussed on its core markets in the UK and Ireland and resolved all its major legacy issues, while returning to profitability and paying dividends.”

Alison will also be appointed as executive director and chief executive on the boards of NatWest Holdings, The Royal Bank of Scotland, National Westminster Bank and Ulster Bank.

Rose said: “It is a huge honour to have been appointed as the new chief executive of RBS and I am looking forward to getting started.

“As one of the oldest and most important financial institutions in the UK, we have a key role to play in supporting the economy and championing the potential that exists across the country.

“Under Ross’ leadership, RBS has undergone a significant transformation and, as part of his leadership team, I am extremely proud of all we have accomplished, and I would like to thank him for the support he has given me over the last six years.

“Maintaining the safety and soundness of this bank will continue to underpin everything we do, as will our commitment to our customers and to delivering steady returns for our shareholders.

“This is an exciting time as we enter a new chapter for this bank. Our industry is facing a series of challenges; from the ongoing economic and political uncertainty to shifts in the behaviour and expectations of our customers, driven by rapid advances in technology.

“It will be my priority to make sure we are ready to meet these challenges and build the best bank for families, businesses and communities. We will be driven with real purpose in our work to help achieve the goals and potential of our customers and be there for them at key moments in their lives.”