The Mansfield Building Society has appointed Alison Chmiel as its first female board chair.

She succeeds Jeremy Cross, who stands down following six years in the role.

Chmiel (pictured) a long-standing director at the Society, was first appointed to the board in February 2013. She started her career at IBM before later moving on to Ikano Bank UK where she was finance director & deputy managing director.

The official transition of duties took place on 24 June, although Cross remains on the Society’s board as a non-executive director and risk committee chair.

Paul Wheeler, the Mansfield Building Society’s chief executive, said: “As well as her impressive CV and hands-on experience, I’ve seen Alison’s natural ability to engage with colleagues on the board and across the Society. Alison’s blend of technical knowledge and softer people skills will ensure that the Society continues to flourish in the future, building on the success achieved by Jeremy in his tenure as board chair.”

Chmiel added: “I’m delighted to be taking up the role of board chair at Mansfield Building Society and wish to thank Jeremy for his excellent stewardship over the last six years, during which time the Society enjoyed unparalleled change, investment and growth. I want to play my part in ensuring that the Society continues to thrive and prosper, whilst remaining true to its mutual heritage by looking after its members and the community which we are proud to serve.”