Vanquis Banking Group plc today announced the appointment of John Natalizia as CEO. The appointment is subject to regulatory approval.

John Natalizia will join the Board with immediate effect.

The appointment follows a comprehensive and rigorous executive search process led by the Board, which considered the experience required to lead Vanquis in the next phase, following the announcement on 11 September 2026 of Ian McLaughlin’s intention to step down as CEO. Ian has now left the business and stepped down from the Board, effective 10 November 2026.

John Natalizia joined Vanquis in July 2023, following the acquisition of the fintech uSnoop Limited (‘Snoop’) in July 2023, which he co-founded, and has been a member of the Group Executive Committee since then. He was appointed Deputy CEO in April 2026 and has had executive responsibility for the Group’s product offerings, and technology and change delivery, which incorporates the Gateway transformation programme. He has over 25 years of banking experience, including a range of senior commercial, digital, operational and transformation roles at Virgin Money and MBNA. At Virgin Money, John was responsible for the build, migration and successful launch of Virgin Money’s credit card business. At MBNA, he led the strategic transformation of its credit card division.

Sir Peter Estlin, Group Chairman, commented:

“John brings extensive experience to the role, together with a deep understanding of Vanquis and the customers we serve. Vanquis has undergone substantial change in recent years, including the modernisation of its technology and operating capabilities. John has played an important role in that transformation, working closely with the Board and leadership team across the business.

The Board believes John has the required experience, commercial focus and understanding of the business needed to lead Vanquis in its next phase, with a clear focus on disciplined execution, and delivering shareholder value.”

John Natalizia, CEO, commented:

“It is a privilege to be asked by the Board to take on the role of Chief Executive of Vanquis. I know the business well and believe strongly in the role we play serving customers whose needs are not always well met by mainstream providers.

We have made substantial progress in modernising Vanquis. My priority is firmly on execution, with a clear emphasis on serving our customers responsibly, particularly as they navigate the current cost-of-living pressures on household finances. I remain focused on improving efficiency and ensuring that growth and investment translate into attractive, sustainable returns and ultimately value creation for shareholders.”