United Trust Bank appoints James Masters as chief technology officer

United Trust Bank (UTB) has appointed James Masters to the newly created role of chief technology officer.

James has many years’ experience working in technology in the financial services sector including roles with JPMorgan, F&C Asset Management and PriceWaterhouseCoopers. Most recently James was the global head of corporate technology for Schroders Investment Management.

UTB has made considerable investment in technology in recent years, much of which enabled the Bank to achieve record levels of new business in 2020 despite the challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. James is tasked with further developing the Bank’s digital strategy and IT infrastructure to ensure it supports UTB’s growth aspirations.

On announcing his appointment, James Masters said: “I am hugely excited to be joining United Trust Bank with a mandate to develop and deliver the Bank’s digital technology and change strategy. UTB has already shown leadership in the specialist banking sector with its investment in intuitive FinTech; improving customer and broker experiences, streamlining processes and encouraging easier and more secure communication between the Bank and its stakeholders. I’m keen to further leverage innovative technology which will evolve with the Bank and support its impressive growth.”

Rob Sherr, chief operating officer – United Trust Bank, said: “The creation of this new senior role at UTB underlines the importance the Bank is placing on technology in helping us to maintain our commitment to innovate and improve customer and broker experiences when dealing with UTB.

“James’ deep technical knowledge and sector experience will be vital in helping us to stay abreast of the constantly evolving fintech landscape and delivering our exciting and dynamic change programme.”