Tag Archives: swansea building society

Awards, Business, FInance, News from Wales

Knowledge Bank names Swansea Building Society as Criteria Champion 2024

Swansea Building Society has been recognised as Criteria Champion 2024 by Knowledge Bank. This award underscores the Society’s dedication to supporting mortgage brokers and its expertise in overcoming the toughest client challenges.

The award, which is voted for by brokers across the UK, highlights lenders that consistently deliver an extensive and flexible range of criteria to meet the diverse needs of clients. Swansea Building Society stood out for its dedication to providing tailored solutions and its proactive efforts to share these with brokers nationwide.

The Society’s participation in eight Criteria Clinics annually for the past three years has been a key factor in its recognition. These clinics, hosted by Knowledge Bank, are designed to ensure brokers are fully informed of the innovative and bespoke options available to their clients. Swansea Building Society’s consistent presence in these events demonstrates its dedication to empowering brokers with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed.

In addition, the Society was also a finalist in the Legendary Lender category. Winning one category and being named as a finalist in another is a significant achievement, recognising the impact Swansea Building Society has had on Knowledge Bank’s brokers and the wider market.

Alun Williams, Chief Executive of Swansea Building Society, said:

“We are honoured to receive the Criteria Champion 2024 award. At Swansea Building Society, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional service to brokers and their clients, ensuring we offer solutions that cater to even the most complex scenarios. Being recognised by Knowledge Bank and the broker community for this commitment is a fantastic achievement for our entire team.”

Nicola Firth, Founder and CEO of Knowledge Bank, added:

“Swansea Building Society exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond for brokers. Their active engagement in Criteria Clinics and their innovative approach to solving client challenges make them a deserving winner of this award.”

This achievement underscores Swansea Building Society’s reputation as a trusted partner for brokers, combining its commitment to service excellence with a deep understanding of the ever-evolving mortgage market.

Business, Swansea

Swansea Building Society marks three transformative years supporting Maggie’s Swansea

Swansea Building Society is celebrating the conclusion of its remarkable three-year partnership with cancer charity Maggie’s, during which it served as the Society’s official staff charity. During this time, the collaboration has seen over £90,000 raised and donated, helping to sustain Maggie’s vital work in providing support to people affected by cancer across South West Wales.

Since 2022, Swansea Building Society has been unwavering in its commitment to Maggie’s Swansea, undertaking a wide range of fundraising activities that have engaged staff, customers, and the wider community. These efforts have included everything from fire walks and sponsored dog walks (‘mutt struts’) to the challenging Welsh Three Peaks climb, a month-long ‘dip a day’ open water swimming challenge, and participation in events such as the Swansea 10k and Half Marathon. Additionally, the Society’s centenary year in 2023 saw all funds raised during this milestone anniversary donated to Maggie’s.

The Society’s commitment extended beyond traditional fundraising events, with sponsorship of Maggie’s Annual Ball as headline sponsor for three consecutive years, as well as support for the charity’s inaugural and subsequent Christmas Extravaganza events. These high-profile occasions not only raised significant funds but also heightened awareness of the invaluable services provided by Maggie’s Swansea.

Located within Singleton Hospital, Maggie’s Swansea is a haven for individuals and families affected by cancer, offering a welcoming space with free access to practical advice, emotional support, and group workshops. The funds raised by Swansea Building Society have been instrumental in ensuring these services remain accessible to all who need them.

Alun Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Swansea Building Society, said:

“Our partnership with Maggie’s Swansea over the past three years has been a deeply rewarding experience for everyone at Swansea Building Society. The incredible amount raised is a testament to the enthusiasm and generosity of our staff, members, and the local community. Maggie’s provides essential support to people at one of the most challenging times in their lives, and it has been a privilege to contribute to their work. While our time as Maggie’s official charity partner concludes, our commitment to supporting our community remains as strong as ever, and we will undoubtedly work with them again in the future.”

Lucia Osmond, Centre Fundraising Manager at Maggie’s Swansea, added:

“Swansea Building Society’s support has been nothing short of extraordinary. The dedication and creativity shown in their fundraising efforts have had a tangible impact on our ability to deliver free practical, emotional, and psychological support to those navigating the challenges of cancer. We are immensely grateful for their partnership over the last three years.”

While Swansea Building Society will announce a new charity partner in January 2025, the Society leaves behind a legacy of profound impact and heartfelt collaboration with Maggie’s Swansea—one that will resonate for years to come.

Business, FInance, Finance News, News, South Wales, Wales

Swansea Building Society grows workforce amid industry downsizing

Swansea Building Society has added 13 new employees to its growing team so far in 2024, strengthening its commitment to providing customer-focused services across South Wales and England. This expansion not only underscores the Society’s continued growth but also highlights its steadfast approach to “opening and not closing branches” at a time when many financial institutions are reducing staff numbers and consolidating operations.

With a mix of industry veterans and new talent joining from major high-street banks and other financial Institutions, Swansea Building Society continues to build a strong team focused on quality and personal service. This year’s hires include roles across key areas, such as customer service, mortgage sales & administration, compliance, IT, and HR, enhancing the Society’s capacity to serve a growing member base.

These include: Lynn Pamment (Non-Executive Director); Carlos Cruz (Risk & Compliance); Curtis Morris (Mortgage Manager); Ben Russ (IT); Luke Jones and Rhys Morris (Manager Assistant Support Officers); Cathryn Evans, Nicola McCarthy, Sarah Duck, Natasha Batchelor (Cashiers); Leanne Staniforth (Manager Assistant); Katie Jones (Mortgage Administration) and Swagata Biswas (HR Manager).

Swagata Biswas joined the Society in July as HR Manager. With eight years of HR experience and an MBA from Cardiff Metropolitan University, Swagata is currently pursuing a CIPD Level 5 qualification to further develop her strategic capabilities.

Carlos Cruz joined the Society’s Risk & Compliance team in April, bringing valuable experience from the compliance field. After graduating with a degree in Law with Spanish from Swansea University, Carlos began his career in financial crime compliance, before moving into his current role upon returning to Swansea. Ben Russ, who has joined in IT, brings a strong analytical background with a degree in Mathematics from Cardiff University and previous IT service desk experience.

The Society has also welcomed several new Manager Assistants, Mortgage Administrators, and Cashiers, including Cathryn Evans, who brings 36 years of financial services experience, most recently from Barclays, and Katie Jones, who joined the Mortgage Administration team after two years with Lloyds Banking Group.

The 2024 expansion highlights Swansea Building Society’s ongoing growth and resilience. By attracting experienced professionals from institutions that have faced staff cuts, the Society has strengthened its position as a unique player in the financial sector, maintaining its commitment to branch-based, hands-on customer service, whilst also allowing expansion of its digital services, at a time when online-only banking is becoming more prevalent.

Alun Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Swansea Building Society, said:

“Our new team members bring with them a wealth of experience as well as fresh insight from a variety of backgrounds, strengthening our ability to provide exceptional service to our customers. At Swansea Building Society, we remain committed to branch expansion and building strong relationships with our members, offering a personal, tailored approach that stands out in today’s banking landscape.

“With these appointments, Swansea Building Society reaffirms its dedication to expanding its footprint while staying true to its community-centric values.”

Founded in 1923, Swansea Building Society is dedicated to offering quality, personalised financial services across South Wales and England. Committed to local presence and traditional values, the Society emphasises a manual underwriting process and individualised attention for each member’s financial needs.

Business Expansion, Business News, FInance

Swansea Building Society expands Business Development team in England to drive strategic growth

In a move to boost its footprint in key English markets, Swansea Building Society has announced the expansion of its England Business Development Management (BDM) team. The enhanced team will focus on strengthening partnerships with mortgage intermediaries and supporting the Society’s growth objectives across England.

This expansion includes the promotion of Martin Lewis to Area Manager, England, along with the appointment of Jennet James as BDM, and two assistants, Lisa Lunness and Alex Hemingway. Together, this team will bring increased support and dedicated service to brokers and advisers across England.

Martin Lewis, who has been with Swansea Building Society since November 2012, has taken on the role of Area Manager, England. His new role will see him lead the intermediary help desk team based at the Society’s Head Office, supporting mortgage advisers and brokers across England. Prior to this promotion, Lewis was instrumental in developing the Society’s South East Wales business, leveraging his 13 years of experience in the intermediary mortgage industry with Stroud & Swindon Building Society (now Coventry Building Society), NatWest, and National & Provincial Building Society (now Santander).

Lewis’s new responsibilities include managing the BDM team in England. Part of his focus will be on supporting and expanding key relationships with mortgage networks and clubs, identified as crucial growth areas for the Society.

Jennet James joined Swansea Building Society in November 2018, starting in the mortgage processing department. She was promoted to Manager’s Assistant in May 2019, working closely with the East Wales Area Manager, Richard Miles, to oversee mortgage applications from inception to completion. With 30 years of experience in the banking industry, including roles in underwriting, mortgage advising, and branch management primarily with Halifax, James brings extensive knowledge and expertise to her new position as Business Development Manager, England.

Manager’s Assistant, Lisa Lunness, has been with Swansea Building Society for over ten years. Her background in financial services began in 2002 with roles at Bradford and Bingley, HSBC, and the Principality Building Society. Her broad experience in financial services enhances the Society’s commitment to providing high-quality, hands-on support for each mortgage case.

Alex Hemingway joined Swansea Building Society in March 2022. With a law degree and extensive experience in conveyancing, wills and probate, and family law at Peter Lynn and Partners, and Graham Evans and Partners, Hemingway transitioned to financial services as a mortgage administrator with the Mortgage Advice Bureau before joining the Society.

The expanded team reflects Swansea Building Society’s commitment to its “manual underwriting” approach, where each mortgage application is considered on its individual merits. The new team will work to further develop relationships with mortgage networks and clubs across England, ensuring brokers and advisers receive tailored support aligned with the Society’s ethos of exceptional customer service.

Martin Lewis, Area Manager, England, Swansea Building Society, said:

“This team expansion signals our dedication to providing accessible and personalised support to mortgage advisers across England. With Jennet, Lisa, and Alex bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge, we’re well-positioned to support our clients and strengthen our presence in key markets.”

Founded in 1923, Swansea Building Society is committed to delivering quality, customer-focused financial products and services to communities across South & West Wales and England. With a focus on traditional values and a hands-on approach to mortgage underwriting, the Society continues to support local communities while expanding its reach.

Business, Community News

Swansea Building Society Steps In to Support Tata Steel Employees Amid Redundancy Announcements

With the recent announcement of job losses at Tata Steel in Port Talbot, Swansea Building Society is providing support to those impacted. As part of their dedication to the community, the Society will hold ‘drop-in’ clinics at the steelworks, offering details on their savings account options to the affected staff.

Swansea Building Society, an independent mutual Building Society established in 1923, provides mortgages and a range of straightforward savings accounts. Unlike many financial institutions, Swansea Building Society does not offer investment advice linked to the stock market or pensions. This position allows them to offer a ‘safe haven’ for Tata employees who may be receiving redundancy funds and potentially a further 25% tax-free pension lump sum, depending on their age.

To further solidify their commitment, representatives from Tata Steel visited Swansea Building Society’s branch on Portland Street in Swansea on 17 July 2024. During this visit, they met with managers and staff to discuss the planned support initiatives and how best to assist the Tata Steel employees.

Alun Williams, Chief Executive of Swansea Building Society, said:

“Our hearts go out to the employees of Tata Steel and their families during this period of uncertainty. As a local building society, we are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for those navigating the financial implications of redundancy. Our ‘drop-in’ clinics are designed to offer assistance and peace of mind to those affected.”

Barrie Evans, Steelworker and Community Union representative, added:

“We are all really grateful for the empathy and support shown from all the team at Swansea Building Society during this very difficult and stressful period, not just for the Tata workforce, but also the contractors and the wider supply chain, during the transition to greener steelmaking in the UK. We would like to thank Swansea Building Society for the continued support and look forward to seeing you during the drop-in sessions at the Port Talbot site in the near future.”

Swansea Building Society encourages all affected Tata Steel employees to take advantage of the ‘drop-in’ clinics. These sessions will provide a supportive space to discuss the use of the Society’s range of accounts as a safe and secure home for their savings.

Business, Business News, Finance News, Fintech

Swansea Building Society Integrates with Knowledge Bank for Streamlined Mortgage Criteria

In a pioneering move, Swansea Building Society has joined forces with Knowledge Bank. This partnership brings Knowledge Bank’s acclaimed criteria sourcing platform to mortgage intermediaries, enabling effortless, subscription-free access to Swansea Building Society’s wide-ranging mortgage criteria.

This integration allows intermediaries to effortlessly search and view Swansea Building Society’s comprehensive criteria across Residential, Buy to Let, and Self Build mortgages, all from a single, user-friendly interface. Swansea Building Society’s criteria, known for their breadth and inclusiveness, are meticulously maintained and updated through Knowledge Bank’s KB PRO access, ensuring that intermediaries always have the most current information at their fingertips. Access to the Knowledge Bank platform can also be found via the Swansea Building Society website.

The key benefits of this integration include comprehensive criteria access, allowing intermediaries to explore a wide range of criteria addressing all aspects of Swansea Building Society’s lending options. With the convenience of accessing all criteria in one place, intermediaries can streamline their research process, saving valuable time. Real-time updates ensure that any changes made by the lender are instantly reflected on both Knowledge Bank and the lender’s Interactive Criteria Guide, guaranteeing accuracy and reliability.

Swansea Building Society is recognised for offering some of the most extensive and sought-after criteria in the market, catering to a wide range of intermediary queries. The platform is also designed for optimal use on mobile and tablet devices, allowing intermediaries to access information on-the-go. Importantly, intermediaries can access Swansea Building Society’s criteria without needing a Knowledge Bank account.

Shane Chawatama, Sales Director at Knowledge Bank, said:

“We are thrilled that Swansea Building Society, a longstanding supporter of Knowledge Bank, has chosen to utilise our Interactive Criteria Guide. This integration not only enhances the accessibility of mortgage criteria available to intermediaries but also reinforces our commitment to providing innovative, user-centric solutions that drive efficiency and success in the mortgage industry.”

Alun Williams, Chief Executive of Swansea Building Society, added:

“Our partnership with Knowledge Bank reflects our commitment to enhancing the experience for mortgage intermediaries. By providing easy, real-time access to our comprehensive mortgage criteria, we are enabling intermediaries to make faster, more informed decisions. This collaboration underscores our dedication to supporting our customers with the best tools and resources available.”

Intermediaries are encouraged to explore this powerful new tool and experience the benefits of having extensive, up-to-date mortgage criteria readily available. With Swansea Building Society’s Interactive Criteria Guide, making informed and timely lending decisions has never been easier.

Appointments, Business

Swansea Building Society Sponsors Cardiff Business Club and Appoints Richard Miles to Board

In a strategic partnership, Swansea Building Society will sponsor Cardiff Business Club for the upcoming season. This announcement follows a year of exceptional growth and record profits for the Society in South East Wales and the Welsh borders. Additionally, Richard Miles, the Society’s Head of Savings & Marketing / Area Manager East Wales, joins the Cardiff Business Club Board.

As a longstanding pillar of the Welsh financial community, Swansea Building Society recognises the importance of fostering strong business networks and supporting the local economy. The decision to sponsor Cardiff Business Club aligns with the Society’s commitment to giving back to the business community that has been integral to its success.

Cardiff Business Club, founded in 1912, is a leading organisation of its kind in Wales. It aims to offer an environment where all their members can connect with decision makers from across the private, public and charitable sectors to support and promote their businesses.

Richard Miles brings a wealth of experience to his new role on the Cardiff Business Club Board. With a robust background in sales and marketing, Miles has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision. His roles as a board member of Cardiff YMCA Housing Association Limited and Linc Cymru have further honed his expertise in governance and community engagement, making him a valuable asset to Cardiff Business Club.

Swansea Building Society, founded in 1923, is one of only three remaining mutual building societies in Wales. With its headquarters in Swansea and branch offices in Mumbles, Cowbridge and Carmarthen, it is gaining an increasing presence in South East Wales and the Welsh Borders. The Society’s main objective is to offer a wide range of savings and flexible mortgages accounts. The Society prides itself on their face-to-face approach that can suit all its members.

Richard Miles, Head of Savings & Marketing / Area Manager East at Swansea Building Society, said:

“Due to expansion across the area, we thought it would be a great idea to sponsor Cardiff Business Club to allow us to contribute to the vibrant business environment in Cardiff. It is an honour to be appointed as a board member at the Business Club. I relish the opportunity to bring my deep understanding and knowledge of sales and marketing to continue developing Cardiff Business Club and to continue to give back to the local business community.”

Richard Miles will join an illustrious panel on the Cardiff Business Club Board. This includes Club President, Baroness Grey-Thompson, who over 16 years and five Paralympic Games won eleven gold medals, three silver and one bronze, cementing her reputation as one of the most gifted sportswomen of her generation. Another famous name on the Club Board is its Secretary, Paul Thorburn, the former Neath RFC and international Wales rugby union player, who still holds the record for the longest successful kick in an international test match.

Phil Jardine, Chair of Cardiff Business Club, said:

“It is great to have Swansea Building Society to sponsor us this year. It is a privilege to have Richard join our Board due to his success with the Society in the South East Wales area. I am positive that he will be a great asset to Cardiff Business Club.”

Business News, Community News

Swansea Building Society Sponsors Swansea City FC for 2024/25 Season

Swansea Building Society has reaffirmed its support for Swansea City Football Club with a renewed partnership for the 2024/25 season. As part of this commitment, Swansea Building Society will continue as the back of shirt sponsor, ensuring their logo features prominently on both the home and away kits.

Building on a successful four-year sponsorship deal with the Championship team, Swansea Building Society’s ongoing commitment solidifies the close ties between both organisations.

In a change to previous years, Swansea Building Society’s logo will appear slightly differently on the 2024/25 season away kit. While allowing the Society’s colours of green and white to stand proud on the home shirt, a colour change will appear on the away shirt to provide a fully immersive kit. The logo will be greyscale on the away shirt, aligning with the overall kit design and matching the new colour scheme adopted by all logos and sponsors. This change ensures a cohesive and stylish look for the team while on the road.

The partnership between Swansea Building Society and Swansea City AFC has flourished over recent years, with the Society providing valuable sponsorships to support the club’s success. Notably, the executive lounge at the Swansea.com stadium was renamed the Swansea Building Society lounge in recognition of this enduring collaboration.

Swansea Building Society has a long history of serving the South Wales area, offering a range of savings and mortgage products since its founding as a mutual in 1923. With its headquarters in Swansea and branch offices in Mumbles, Carmarthen, and Cowbridge, Swansea Building Society has become an integral part of the community, embodying a personal, face-to-face approach that caters to the unique needs of its members.

For over a century now, both Swansea Building Society and Swansea City AFC have played crucial roles in the fabric of Swansea’s history and growth. The Society celebrated its centenary last year, and it is 100 years since Swansea Town, as the football club was known at the time, earned its first league honour in 1924. Since then, both organisations have thrived, achieving significant milestones and contributing to the prosperity of the Swansea community.

Alun Williams, Chief Executive of Swansea Building Society, said:

“We are thrilled to renew our support as the back of shirt sponsor for Swansea City AFC for the 2024/25 season. Our longstanding partnership with the club highlights our shared dedication to the Swansea community. This year, with the new colours on the away kit, we continue to reflect our innovative spirit and commitment to the club’s success. We look forward to another exciting season and wish the team all the best on and off the field.”

Lee Merrells, Head of Partnerships at Swansea City AFC, added:

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with Swansea Building Society for the upcoming season. Their ongoing support is invaluable to us, and their presence on our kits exemplifies the strong bond between the club and the community. The updated colours for the away shirts not only enhance the overall design but also demonstrate our collaborative efforts to bring fresh and cohesive aesthetics to our fans. We are excited about the season ahead and the continued success of our partnership with Swansea Building Society.”

Business News, FInance

Swansea Building Society Joins Forces with Finance Advice Club to Enhance Advisor Network

In a move to enhance its advisor network, Swansea Building Society has partnered with Finance Advice Club (FAC), a distinguished whole-of-market network specialising in Mortgages, Loans, and Protection. Through this partnership, Swansea Building Society will now process mortgage applications from advisors linked to FAC, expanding the financial options and expert advice available to its clients.

This partnership strengthens Swansea Building Society’s position in the market and reinforces its dedication to delivering exceptional service and support to customers. Dedicated to prioritising client needs and delivering exceptional service, Finance Advice Club brings a wealth of expertise and resources to the collaboration.

With a strong emphasis on compliance and training, Finance Advice Club offers full compliance support to all advisors and appointed representatives, ensuring a safe and worry-free environment for all stakeholders. Extensive and in-depth training provided by FAC equips advisors to deliver the best possible service to clients while continuously improving themselves professionally.

Established in 1923, Swansea Building Society – with offices in Swansea, Mumbles, Carmarthen and Cowbridge – is one of only three remaining mutual building societies in Wales and the only one with its headquarters in South West Wales. The Society’s latest figures have shown it achieved record double digit growth in its total assets, mortgages, savings and capital. As of December 31, 2023, it had total assets in excess of £607 million.

Richard Miles, Swansea Building Society’s Head of Savings & Marketing / Area Manager East, said:

“We are delighted to join forces with Finance Advice Club to extend our reach and better serve our customers. This collaboration aligns with our commitment to providing tailored financial solutions and exceptional service. By partnering with FAC, we can broaden our network of advisors and offer our customers even greater choice and convenience.”

Matt Cassar, Managing Director of Finance Advice Group, added:

“We are thrilled to welcome Swansea Building Society to our network of trusted partners. This collaboration represents a fantastic opportunity for both parties to leverage their strengths and deliver enhanced value to clients. By working together, we can provide advisors with access to a diverse range of mortgage, loan, and protection products, empowering them to better meet the evolving needs of their customers.”

Awards, Business

Carmarthenshire Business Awards Welcomes Swansea Building Society as Sponsor

The inaugural Carmarthenshire Business Awards will feature Swansea Building Society as the sponsor for the Financial and Professional Service Business of the Year award. This much-anticipated event will be held on July 12, 2024, at Parc Y Scarlets in Llanelli, uniting the county’s thriving business community to honour outstanding entrepreneurial and innovative achievements.

The Carmarthenshire Business Awards will commence at 6:30 pm with a drinks reception, followed by a dinner and the awards ceremony. This black-tie event aims to celebrate the vibrant business community in Carmarthenshire, recognising significant contributions to the local economy.

The Financial and Professional Service Business of the Year award, sponsored by Swansea Building Society, is open to any business operating within the financial and professional services sector in Carmarthenshire. The award celebrates excellence within the sector, recognising companies that demonstrate remarkable growth, strong financial performance, innovation, and exceptional customer experience. Judges are looking for companies that have achieved growth and strong financial performance through innovation and exceptional customer experience, with a clear focus on future business success.

Sioned Jones, Area Manager for West Wales, Swansea Building Society, said:

“We are thrilled to support the Carmarthenshire Business Awards and to celebrate the remarkable achievements of businesses in the county. At Swansea Building Society, we are committed to fostering innovation and excellence within the financial and professional services sector. These awards highlight the outstanding contributions of businesses that drive economic growth and provide exceptional service to their clients. We look forward to recognising and honouring their success.”

In addition to the Carmarthenshire Business Awards, Swansea Building Society will also sponsor the Financial and Professional Service Business of the Year award at the Torfaen & Monmouthshire Business Awards on September 19, 2024, at The Parkway Hotel, Torfaen, and the Vale of Glamorgan Business Awards on October 4, 2024, at The Vale Resort. These events continue to celebrate the vibrant business community across South Wales.