Royal London has announced the appointment of Isabel Hudson as a non-executive director and as chair of The Royal London Mutual Insurance Society Limited.

Her appointment will take effect from 10 February 2025.

Lynne Peacock, current interim chair, will step down from the Royal London Board on 9 February 2025.

Ms. Hudson has extensive financial services experience spanning insurance, pensions and regulation, together with non-executive roles in the telecoms and house building sectors. She is currently a non-executive director at AXA SA and chair of Guide Dogs. Among other roles, Ms. Hudson has served on the boards of RSA Insurance Group plc, Phoenix Group Holdings, BT, National House Building Council, The Pensions Regulator and Standard Life.

Peacock said: “Isabel brings significant financial services insight and an impressive board portfolio, including experience from other sectors. Her deep understanding of the key markets in which Royal London operates will be of immense value to the Royal London Board and its members. I wish Isabel and Royal London the very best for the future.”

Barry O’Dwyer, group CEO, said: “Isabel is an excellent choice to be the next chair of the board of Royal London. Royal London is a customer-owned mutual and Isabel shares my passion for mutuality. I am looking forward to working with her to deliver even more for the customers we serve.

“I also want to thank Lynne Peacock, interim chair, who will be stepping down from the board, and I wish her every success for the future.”

Hudson added: “I am delighted to join the board of a company with a long and distinguished history of mutuality and a strong sense of purpose. Royal London’s commitment to helping build financial resilience is particularly important to me. I look forward to working with the board and wider management team and focusing on delivering long-term value for our members and customers.”