Tamara Dewhirst has been appointed to the newly formed role of head of public affairs and strategic engagement at Nationwide.
The new position was created at the start of March, following the merger between Nationwide and Virgin Money. Dewhirst was previously head of external affairs at Virgin Money for over a year. Prior to that she was head of public affairs for almost five years.
In October 2024, Virgin Money and Nationwide Building Society became part of the same group. Following court approval last month, Virgin Money’s business is expected to become part of Nationwide at the start of April.
As a result of this process, the policy and public affairs teams at Virgin Money and Nationwide have now been merged effective from the start of this month.
In her new role, Dewhirst will have five direct reports and will herself report to director of corporate affairs David Hass. Her initial priorities are to establish a new public affairs and strategic engagement function as a ‘centre of excellence’.
She is also looking to build on Nationwide's strong reputation with policy makers, and to level the legislative playing field between banks and building societies.
Dewhirst said: “I’m delighted to be leading the new public affairs function at such an important moment for Nationwide following the acquisition of Virgin Money. Nationwide is one of the UK’s most trusted brands, offering banking that is fairer, more rewarding, and for the good of society. I look forward to strengthening our relationships with policymakers as we support more first‑time buyers and launch our new business banking proposition.”
Prior to her role at Virgin Money, Dewhirst worked at TSB Bank for over six years, initially holding the role of public affairs manager before progressing to the role of senior manager, public affairs.