Atom Bank has announced a wave of senior internal promotions within its technology team, as the Durham-based digital lender looks to increase its pace of product development and bolster delivery capabilities across the business.
The news sees nine existing staff elevated into newly created or expanded leadership roles, reflecting what the bank describes as a “significant investment” in technology talent as it gears up for further growth.
The changes come on the back of a 25% increase in change velocity over the past year and coincide with an expansion of Atom’s savings franchise.
Three value stream-aligned roles have been introduced, each with direct accountability for delivery. Ges Richmond becomes head of lending delivery after five years with the bank, while Orla Codyre has been appointed head of savings delivery. Kath Langlands, also with two years’ tenure, steps into the role of head of platform and enterprise delivery.
The restructuring also introduces new senior technology leads focused on execution standards and team effectiveness. Rob Smith has been named head of engineering, Rob Butcher becomes head of architecture, and Faizah Rafique takes up the position of head of business analysis. Each has been promoted internally, with between three and six years at the firm.
A further key appointment sees James Kerruish named chief information security officer and head of service. Kerruish, one of Atom’s longest-serving employees with more than eight years at the bank, will oversee cyber security, incident management and the technical service desk.
A newly created chief of staff role has gone to Leanne Judge, a 10-year Atom veteran, who will take responsibility for aligning and improving the performance of the wider technology function. Her remit includes oversight of the delivery coaching team.
Meanwhile, Dr Russell Collingham, previously lead enterprise architect, will head up Atom’s growing AI and data science team. Collingham, who holds a PhD in artificial intelligence from Durham University and spent more than a decade there in research and academia, is tasked with leading the integration of AI across the bank to enhance decision-making, customer service and operational efficiency.
Chief technology officer Andy Sturrock (pictured) said the appointments would help Atom scale its operations while continuing to develop its proprietary tech stack.
“I’m delighted to have such a strong and capable leadership team in place,” he said. “Their collective expertise will be vital as we continue to increase our velocity and invest in our technology stack to better support the business.”
He added that internal progression remains central to Atom’s growth plans: “It’s incredibly rewarding to see so many experienced colleagues grow and step into new leadership roles through internal promotions.
“This commitment to developing our people from within is fundamental to our strategy, ensuring we attract the brightest and best young talent, particularly as we move to our new HQ in Newcastle.”
