LHV Bank appoints new chief

Digital-first UK lender LHV Bank has appointed former Starling Bank executive Damian Thompson as its new chief executive and executive director.

Damian will join the UK subsidiary of AS LHV Group on January 4, subject to regulatory approval, with a remit to accelerate growth and expand lending, particularly to small and medium-sized businesses.

He brings more than three decades of experience across UK banking, structured finance and financial services.

After almost 20 years in senior roles at NatWest Markets, Damian joined Starling Bank’s executive team in 2021, overseeing lending and asset management as the digital bank expanded.

During his tenure, Starling’s loan portfolio grew to more than £5 billion, primarily across mortgages and SME lending.

He also served as chief executive of Fleet Mortgages, Starling’s buy-to-let lending business, and subsequently took responsibility for SME banking products, retail overdrafts and loans.

Damian previously chaired UK Finance’s Specialist Banks Advisory Forum, representing banks outside the UK’s five largest lenders.

His appointment remains subject to approval from the Prudential Regulation Authority and Financial Conduct Authority.

Damian said: “LHV Bank has strong foundations for its next phase of growth: advanced technology, the backing of a Group with a sustained record of profitable growth, and a clear ambition to expand its lending. 

“The opportunity to lead a bank with that tech advantage through rapid growth while maintaining the highest standards of risk management and regulatory compliance is compelling. 

“I look forward to working with the UK team and colleagues across the Group to lead LHV Bank into its next chapter.”

Mihkel added: “Damian knows banking, lending and technology. 

“He combines the experience of one of the UK’s largest banks with the pace of Starling, where he led the growth of its lending as it became a major digital bank, and he shares the entrepreneurial spirit that defines LHV. 

“Growing our local presence in the UK on a strong technology platform is at the core of our strategy, and Damian has the experience to lead it.”

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