The British Business Bank has named Karen Barnett (pictured) as its new chief people officer, effective from October 2023.

Barnett was previously human resources director at WH Ireland, a private wealth management, financial planning and capital markets services company.  Before that, she was head of human resources at Merian Global Investors.

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead the people function at the British Business Bank and partner with the chief executive and executive team,” said Barnett.

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“I look forward to joining the human resources team, working with the business to optimise support for smaller businesses and deliver the Bank’s goals of driving sustainable growth, backing innovation and unlocking potential, whilst working to build the modern, green economy.”

The British Business Bank has made a number of high-profile hires in recent months. In May, the Bank appointed Louise McCoy as its commercial managing director for small business lending. And in August, Eshi Eshun OBE was named its new general counsel and company secretary.

“I’m pleased to welcome Karen as our new chief people officer,” Louis Taylor, chief executive officer at the British Business Bank.

“Karen brings a wealth of human resources expertise and knowledge. I am looking forward to collaborating with her as a key member of our senior leadership team and executive committee as we continue to grow and expand the Bank, while making sure that it remains a fantastic place to work for our people.”

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