An Experienced Addition to the Leadership Team

Raghu Narula will join Starling Bank in February 2025, bringing over 20 years of experience in retail, wealth, and commercial banking, as well as strategic leadership. His most recent role was as Managing Director, Customer Engagement and Distribution at NatWest Group, where he led customer engagement and service transformation initiatives.

Before NatWest, Raghu held senior leadership positions at HSBC, where he worked across multiple regions, including Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the UK. He was instrumental in building and transforming businesses at various stages of development, from launch to large-scale transformation.

In his new role, Raghu will oversee customer and commercial growth, drive innovation across all of Starling’s customer segments—both business and retail—and lead the development and launch of new products and customer propositions.

Welsh Foundations and UK Operations

Founded by Welsh entrepreneur Anne Boden, Starling Bank has grown into a leading digital bank, with key operations based in Cardiff. The Cardiff office plays a central role in supporting the bank’s activities and serves as a hub for its innovative projects and services.

Leadership Perspectives

“Raghu’s vast knowledge across retail, wealth management, and commercial banking, coupled with his deep understanding of digital transformation in financial services, make him an ideal fit for Starling. This appointment further strengthens our leadership team as we embark on our next phase of growth.”

— Raman Bhatia, CEO, Starling Bank

“I’m looking forward to joining Starling as it embarks on its next phase of innovation and growth. My goal is to work with my exceptional colleagues to continue to challenge and change how banking customers can be best served in the UK. I’m confident we can make a tangible difference for individuals and small businesses alike.”

— Raghu Narula, Chief Banking Officer, Starling Bank

A Bank Poised for Continued Growth

Raghu’s appointment reflects Starling Bank’s commitment to expanding its leadership team with experienced professionals who can help drive innovation and customer-focused services. With its headquarters in London and a significant operational presence in Cardiff, Starling is well-positioned to continue its mission of transforming financial services in the UK.