Its existing CEO, Graham Davin, has announced his intention to step down from the role he has held since leading a management buyout of the bank in 2004. 

Graham will remain on the board of UTB as deputy chairman and will continue to contribute to the development of the bank. 

“I’ve worked with Harley for more than 20 years, and I couldn’t think of anyone I’d rather hand over the UTB reins to,” Graham said.

“Harley is a knowledgeable and talented leader, and this transition will come as no surprise to all UTB’s stakeholders. 

“I am confident he will drive the bank on to even greater success and realise our ambition of creating the UK’s most successful specialist bank.”

In his current role as group managing director, Harley — who was part of the 2004 buyout team — is responsible for all UTB’s lending businesses.

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The appointment to CEO is expected to be effective from January when the necessary regulatory approvals are received. 

Richard Murley, chairman at UTB, commented: “Harley is a highly talented executive who has played a key role in delivering UTB’s growth and success and I welcome his appointment as UTB’s next CEO. 

“He has an unparalleled knowledge and understanding of the bank’s operations and is perfectly placed to ensure a smooth transition when Graham becomes deputy chairman.” 

Despite the challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent national and local lockdown restrictions, UTB is on track to deliver a record year for new lending and expects to have grown its balance sheet to well in excess of £1.75bn by the end of 2020.

“We expect to complete well over £1bn of new loans this year, the first time we have exceeded that figure in the bank’s history,” Graham stated.

“Reaching this significant milestone seems to present the ideal opportunity for me to hand over the responsibility and to assume a non-executive role while continuing to support the continued development of the business. 

“I look forward to Harley and his team writing the next chapter of UTB’s remarkable success story as we enter a new decade.”

Richard added: “On behalf of the board, I would like to pay tribute to Graham for his outstanding leadership, wisdom and vision which have established UTB as a significant and highly respected specialist bank. 

“I am delighted that we will retain his deep knowledge and acumen on the board. 

“Together, Graham and Harley have assembled a strong team to lead the business in the next phase of its development and I look forward to 2021 with confidence and excitement.”