Emma joins from Barclays International where she was Director of Cyber Strategy and Programme. Prior to this, she was Chief Information Security Officer for the Corporate Functions and Commodity Trading Division at BP Oil International and has over 13 years’ experience in leading cyber security and privacy agendas across a variety of industry sectors including financial services, oil and gas, telecoms and government.

In the newly created role Emma will be responsible for the delivery of security and privacy services across Santander UK, in line with the continued commitment to protect Santander’s systems, information and customers from the growing cyber risk.

Emma will report to Santander UK COO Michael Harte and starts her role with immediate effect.

Commenting on the appointment Michael Harte, Chief Operating Officer, Santander UK said: “I’m delighted to appoint Emma as Chief Information Security Officer as we continue to build a team delivering innovative products and solutions for our customers and communities that we serve, whilst ensuring information security remains a top priority. Emma brings extensive knowledge and experience to the team which will prove invaluable in helping us drive forward our security and privacy agendas across Santander UK to ensure our customers’ prosper.”

Emma Leith said: “I am delighted to be joining Santander UK. It is well known in the market for creating customer value through innovative solutions and delivering an excellent service. I look forward to working with the teams both in the UK and across Santander Group to further build on the existing work and ensure we are well placed for the challenges ahead.”