British Business Bank has appointed Karen Barnett chief people officer, effective from October.
Barnett will join the bank from private wealth management firm WH Ireland, where she was human resources director and a member of its executive committee. While there, she established a best practice HR team and was responsible for collaborating with the board and chief executive officer (CEO) to develop and implement people strategies and policies.
Prior to joining WH Ireland, Barnett was head of human resources at Merian Global Investors, where she focused on organisational effectiveness, culture, talent acquisition, and supporting multiple business change agendas. She began her career working at the Department for Education.
Barnett said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead the people function at the British Business Bank and partner with the CEO and executive team. 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, while working to build the modern, green economy.”
Louis Taylor, CEO at British Business Bank, added: “I’m pleased to welcome Karen as our new chief people officer. 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.”