After almost 20 years of service, Julie-Ann Haines will be stepping down as Chief Executive of Principality Building Society, Wales’ largest mutual. Her decision marks the end of a distinguished career at the Cardiff-headquartered institution, where she has played a central role in shaping the organisation’s growth, values, and impact.

Haines joined Principality in 2007 and steadily rose through senior leadership positions, including her appointment to the Board in 2016, before becoming CEO in 2020. Her five-year leadership at the helm, and 18-year legacy overall, have been marked by transformation, resilience, and ambition.

Over the course of nearly two decades, Haines helped lead the Society through some of its most defining moments — from navigating the financial aftermath of the global recession to steering the business through the COVID-19 pandemic. Most notably, she has been instrumental in driving a long-term strategy aimed at doubling the size of the Society and reaching one million savers by 2030.

“It has been such a privilege to lead Principality through what has been a truly transformational period. Together, we have helped thousands of people into homes, supported our savers and delivered a real and lasting impact through our partnerships and initiatives. I have been so proud to lead our dedicated and passionate colleagues, to share in their achievements, and confident that the business will continue to thrive under new leadership.”

Her leadership has been defined by a commitment to mutuality — prioritising Members’ needs, championing the high street, and investing in both digital innovation and community partnerships.

“Julie-Ann has championed mutuality by putting our Members at the heart of decision making, through our commitment to the high street, investing in our savings product and digital proposition and in our market-leading customer service. We are grateful for her efforts, and wish her every success in her new role which she will commence in the middle of 2026.”

Julie-Ann Haines will formally hand over to Iain Mansfield, currently the Society’s Chief Financial Officer, who becomes CEO designate from 13 October, with a formal transition planned in November.

As one of the most prominent leaders in Welsh financial services, Haines leaves behind a legacy of strategic growth, strong cultural leadership, and unwavering service to Principality’s Members and the wider community.