The Teachers Building Society has appointed Simon Beresford as its new chief executive.

Beresford (pictured) joins the Dorset-based mutual from BlackRock, and takes over from Dean Fensome, finance director, who has been interim chief executive since October following the departure of James Bawa for the Monmouthshire Building Society last November .

Recently managing director in the BlackRock Retail business, he previously held senior positions at Nationwide, including branch network director, managing director of personal loans and head of mortgage administration.

Beresford said: “It is a privilege to be appointed to the role of chief executive at Teachers Building Society. I believe the Society is very well placed to thrive and grow by helping more teachers to own their homes.

“We offer a distinctive mix of deep sector expertise and a track record of personal service; delivered by a team who are passionate about their customers.”