Recognise Bank appoints Simon Wilson as CRO

Recognise Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Wilson as Chief Risk Officer (CRO), subject to regulatory approval. Simon joins the Bank from a global money service business, where he served as CEO designate for their UK banking start-up.

With over two decades of experience in the UK and EU Banking sectors, Simon brings a wealth of experience in risk management. His career includes significant roles at Santander, Barclays Wealth, RBS, as well as consulting positions and involvement in various fintech startups.

In his most recent role, Simon led the preparation of the banking licence application, the regulatory business plan, ICAAP and ILAAP. As CRO of Recognise Bank, Simon will oversee the effective governance of the Bank, as it drives towards profitability and delivery of excellent value to its customers and stakeholders.

Simon Wilson commented on his appointment: “I am delighted to join the Recognise Bank team at this pivotal moment. I look forward to contributing to the Bank’s next stage of growth and am excited to work with a team that has such a wealth of experience and knowledge.”

Simon Bateman, incoming CEO of Recognise Bank, added: “It is a pleasure to welcome Simon as CRO. His proven track record in risk management across the banking sector will be an invaluable asset to the team. We are confident that his expertise will help us on our journey towards profitability while continuing to enhance the value we provide to our customers.”

Steve Pateman

Steve has had an extensive executive career in banking, leading corporate and commercial banking businesses at RBS/NatWest, managing Santander’s UK banking businesses and as CEO of Shawbrook Bank, Hodge Banking Group and most recently successfully leading the banking licence application for StreamBank.

He is a non-executive Director at Bank of Ireland both in the UK and Dublin and Thin Cats, a specialist SME lending business and is retained as an advisor to Black Lion Ventures. He was previously President of the Chartered Banker Institute.

Steve took up the role of Chair (subject to regulatory approval) at Recognise Bank in November 2024, having served as an Investor Non-Executive Director since January 2024.