UK Finance has today announced the appointment of Sarah Bailey as its new Managing Director for Corporate Affairs. Sarah, who is currently Director of Media Relations for London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), will join UK Finance on 25 January 2021. She will replace Rebecca Park, the outgoing Managing Director of Corporate Affairs, who will be joining advisory firm Global Counsel.
Sarah’s career spans strategic communications, marketing, media and campaign delivery for a range of organisations including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Bank of England and the Association of British Insurers. She also worked as press secretary to Andrew Bailey as Deputy Governor of the Bank of England, acting as his Special Adviser when he then became the FCA’s Chief Executive.
The 30-strong UK Finance Corporate Affairs function comprises of press and campaigns, UK and international public affairs, content, design and marketing. Sarah, who will sit on the organisation’s Management Committee, will be responsible for the function’s overall strategy and delivery, reporting directly to David Postings, UK Finance’s new CEO, who joins on 1 January 2021.
Representing more than 250 firms, UK Finance is the collective voice for the banking and finance industry acting to enhance competitiveness, support customers and facilitate innovation. It offers research, policy expertise and advocacy as well as operational and project implementation to enhance members’ own services where collective activity across the industry is appropriate.
Commenting on Sarah’s appointment, Bob Wigley, Executive Chair of UK Finance said:
Sarah brings a wide range of communications experience and understanding of the financial services industry. Our members play a vital role in supporting SMEs and consumers across the UK and both David and I look forward to working with Sarah and her team in continuing to position UK Finance as a world class representative organisation.
“On behalf of UK Finance and its members, I would also like to express my gratitude to Rebecca Park, who has made a significant contribution in the development and success of UK Finance over the last four years.
Sarah Bailey said:
As we continue to deal with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the financial services industry has a vital role in rebuilding the economy, supporting customers and driving innovation. UK Finance and its members are at the heart of this effort and I have seen first-hand the key role they play. I am excited to be joining UK Finance at this pivotal time and look forward to contributing to the important work it does.
