Cirencester Friendly announces new board appointments

It appoints a new chair and non-executive director

Cirencester Friendly announces new board appointments

Cirencester Friendly has appointed Janice Banks as new chair of its board and Vicky Churcher (pictured) as non-executive director.

Banks, previously the senior independent director, has also been a non-executive director with Cirencester Friendly since January 2016. She becomes the second female chair in the mutual’s 133-year history.

“It is a great honour to become chair of Cirencester Friendly,” Banks stated. “Over the last seven and half years, I have been proud to be part of the board, overseeing the society’s evolution to meet the changing needs of modern society.

“I look forward to helping to raise the profile of the organisation further, ensuring they can protect the livelihoods of even more individuals at a time when it’s needed more than ever.”

Churcher, meanwhile, brings more than 35 years of experience in financial services and insurance to Cirencester Friendly, having held leading roles in organisations such as Bupa, Ageas, and AIG Life.

“I am delighted to be joining Cirencester Friendly’s board as a non-executive director and taking on a fresh challenge,” Churcher said. “This is my first role with a mutual, and I look forward to upholding their core values, helping to make protection accessible to more people.

“I am excited to be joining the society now as they focus on growing the business, and I look forward to helping to take the organisation to new heights.”

Andy Morris, chief executive at Cirencester Friendly, said he was delighted to welcome Churcher to the board, adding that she was one of the most respected voices in the protection industry.

“Her in-depth knowledge of the sector will be of enormous value to Cirencester Friendly,” Morris commented. “Her appointment further enhances our reputation and shows we’re serious about becoming an active leader in the income protection market.”

He said he was also thrilled that Banks has become its new chair.

“We have an excellent working partnership, and as a long-serving non-executive director, she has built a strong connection to the society, providing vital guidance and support,” Morris added.

“I look forward to working closely with both Vicky and Janice as we seek to achieve our ambitious growth strategy over the next few years.”

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