Vernon Building Society announces a significant leadership change as Steve Fletcher retires, paving the way for Darren Ditchburn.
- Steve Fletcher retires in December 2024, leaving behind a legacy of modernisation and strong business performance.
- Darren Ditchburn, with 20 years of building society experience, will assume the role of Chief Executive.
- Fletcher’s tenure was marked by a £1.2m branch network modernisation and the society’s centenary celebration.
- Ditchburn aims to focus on member support amidst economic challenges, maintaining the society’s core values.
In a significant development, Vernon Building Society has revealed the impending retirement of its Chief Executive, Steve Fletcher. Fletcher, who will officially step down in December 2024, leaves a noteworthy legacy characterised by modernisation and financial resilience. His career, spanning 43 years in the financial sector, saw him navigate the organisation through challenging economic climates while initiating significant projects such as a £1.2 million branch network modernisation.
During his six-year tenure at Vernon, Fletcher also celebrated the society’s centenary, highlighting a period of stability and growth. Fletcher expressed confidence in the society’s trajectory, stating, “I feel the society is in great shape, and we have really exciting plans for the next five years.” His decision to retire is seen as a strategic move to allow fresh leadership to drive the organisation’s future ambitions.
Succeeding Fletcher is Darren Ditchburn, the current deputy chief executive at Leek Building Society. Ditchburn brings with him two decades of expertise in the building society domain, having held substantial roles at Darlington Building Society. His experience encompasses customer service, operations, and risk management, equipping him for his new role at Vernon.
Ditchburn has expressed his enthusiasm for the new position, noting the legacy left by his predecessor. “Steve leaves behind a brilliant legacy, and I am incredibly proud to be joining Vernon Building Society at such an exciting time,” he remarked. Ditchburn is committed to continuing the society’s focus on its members and their futures, placing importance on community and colleague engagement.
As the financial landscape grapples with high inflation, rising living costs, and increased interest rates, Ditchburn aims to uphold the society’s commitment to supporting its members. His vision is clear: “With the impacts of high inflation, increased cost of living, and higher interest rates, a key priority remains offering our members the support and guidance they need to achieve their financial goals.”
This leadership transition marks a new chapter for Vernon Building Society, aimed at steering through economic challenges while maintaining a member-focused approach.
