Mansfield Building Society announced Paul Wheeler (pictured) as its new chief executive at the society’s annual general meeting (AGM).

Paul has been promoted to the role from finance director and deputy chief executive following the departure of Gev Lynott, who has retired after more than 40 years in financial services, including eight years in charge at The Mansfield.

Gev led the society through a period of unprecedented growth, which leaves the organisation in a strong position to tackle the economic head winds expected to arise from the coronavirus pandemic.

The society’s continued commercial success has meant it has been able to increase support for deserving causes in its Heartland Area, including donations of over £89,000 to its Charitable Trust and through its Community Support Scheme. Last year more than 100 volunteer days were also donated by society staff to support worthy causes in the region too.

Although the society celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2020, it had to make changes to its AGM to comply with the social distancing measures and has had to postpone its annual Community Star Awards until later in the year.

Gev said he was proud of the society’s achievements and that it is in good shape to meet the challenges that lie ahead: “I’m delighted with the way the society has evolved during my tenure.

“The last two to three years of record-breaking performance has been testament to the talent, experience and can-do spirit that has been nurtured at the society. I have been really pleased at how all of our people have risen to these various challenges and I know I can now step away leaving the society in very capable hands.

“It is with great pride that I hand over the reins of this terrific organisation to Paul, who I know has the qualities to successfully lead Mansfield Building Society into the next chapter of its proud history.

“Our ongoing success enables us to continue to look after our customers, improve our service proposition, help support our local community, and invest in a society that our members can be immensely proud of. And in these uncertain times, I’m pleased to report that The Mansfield is well-placed to adapt to the changes necessary to combat the threat brought about by coronavirus.”

Paul said that even though the current circumstances are testing, he is ready and willing to take up the challenge: “It’s an honour to be taking the helm of the society in its 150th year. Even though these are unprecedented times, the society’s long history shows that we’re capable of weathering the storm that lies ahead and we’ll continue to serve current and future members for many, many more years to come.”