Shepherds Friendly has appointed Jonathan Sandell as its next chief executive, succeeding Ann-Marie O’Dea, who will step down after more than a decade in the role. His appointment is subject to regulatory approval.

Sandell (main picture), who will take up the post at the start of 2026 as the mutual celebrates its bicentenary, brings more than 20 years of senior leadership experience in financial services.

He is currently customer and proposition director at Lloyds Banking Group and previously oversaw Prudential UK and Europe’s £40 billion retail product portfolio, where he redesigned its pensions and retirement business.

He will continue the transformation strategy set in motion by O’Dea, who has overseen a period of strong growth and change at Shepherds Friendly.

Recent initiatives include appointing a new technology platform provider to expand its customer base and striking fresh partnership agreements with intermediary networks.

MEMBERS-FIRST

Sandell said: “I’m honoured to be joining Shepherds Friendly at such an important time in its history. The concept of mutuality and the society’s member-first approach really resonate with me.

“The organisation has serious pace and momentum behind it thanks to the fantastic job Ann-Marie has done over the past decade. I look forward to leading the next phase of its transformation.”

O’Dea, who has spent nearly 20 years with the society, described her departure as a “not an easy decision” but said she was confident the organisation was “in safe hands”.

PIVOTAL ROLE

Mark Myers, chair of Shepherds Friendly, praised O’Dea’s contribution: “She has played a pivotal role in guiding Shepherds Friendly through an important period of growth and change, and her departure marks the end of an era.

“We are confident Shepherds Friendly will continue to flourish under Jonathan’s leadership as we move into our third century.”