Santander’s UK CEO to leave ahead of TSB merger – Daily Business

Santander’s UK chief executive Mike Regnier will be leaving the bank ahead of its major merger with TSB.

Mr Regnier said that after four years at the helm it was the right time for him to hand over the reins and that he will be pursuing “other interests”.

He will leave early in 2026 and Santander’s board has begun searching for his successor.

Santander agreed to acquire its smaller UK rival in July in a deal worth £2.65 billion, creating the third largest bank in the country by personal current account balances.

Mr Regnier said: “It had been my intention to move on after four-five years with Santander as I have other interests I would like to pursue.

“Given that the integration of TSB will take considerably longer than this, I have suggested to the board that now would be a good time to find a successor who can see this critical project through to its completion and beyond.

“Judging the right moment to move on is very important to ensure leadership stability through a period of intense change and opportunity.”

Ana Botin, the executive chairwoman of the wider Banco Santander group, said Mr Regnier was “always very clear about his intention to stay for up to five years”.

She added: “His decision allows an orderly transition and stable leadership through a very important integration project and the creation and growth of the newly enhanced bank.”