David Webster appointed as External Non-Executive Director

Updated: 28 Jan 2025

David Webster has been appointed External Non-Executive Director (NED) and will fulfil the responsibility alongside his current role as CEO of Douglas Macmillan Hospice, a specialised palliative care charity based in North Staffordshire.

The Society’s Board considers David ‘a natural and perfect fit’, due to his 26 years’ experience in the mutual sector. His previous positions have included 12 years as Regional Director with Bradford and Bingley and 14 years as CEO of Hanley Economic Building Society.

With immediate effect, David is now one of four External NEDs relied on to provide independent insight, oversight and strategic challenge as part of the Society’s Main and Commercial Boards. It is also intended for David to replace the current Board Chairman, Bill Connolly, in spring 2020 when his tenure ends.

Established in 1810, the Oddfellows is a non-profit mutual and represents over 310,000 members in the UK and manages a property investment fund of near £49m. The Society also owns the recently-launched financial services brand, Unity Mutual, which manages around 260,000 savings and investment policies, with policyholder funds under management totalling £235m.

I’m very keen to get under the skin of the Society, to understand its DNA. David Webster

Delighted with David’s appointment, Oddfellows CEO Jane Nelson, said: “We’re an ambitious organisation that constantly evolves in order to maintain our over 200 years’ reputation in delivering strong financial results and meaningful support, and value, to our members.

“We’re confident that David’s commercial experience, reputation in the mutual sector and personable character will help us to continue moving forward with confidence. He is a natural and perfect fit. I know his impact will be significant and that he’ll receive a very warm Oddfellows welcome.”

Commenting on his new position, David Webster, said: “The Oddfellows’ uniqueness as a business captured my interest. It is also very values-driven, which strengthened its appeal. I’m very keen to get under the skin of the Society, to understand its DNA, so I can help the Board to work through their challenging future plan and seize the many exciting opportunities open to them.

“I am also very confident in Jane’s ability to lead the Society. We have great synergy and I look forward to working alongside her and her committed team of Directors and staff.”

Find out more about governance at the Oddfellows.

* Stated figures correct as of December 2018.