Coutts Announces New Women’s Ambassador

Linda Pollard OBE JP DL, Coutts regional chairperson for Yorkshire and Humber, has been announced as the bank’s new women’s ambassador, following chief executive Sarah Deaves’ move to RBS Affluent Banking.

Linda, a businesswoman and successful entrepreneur, sold her last business in 1998, and has since then played a significant role strengthening links between health, education and skills, and the regional economy in Yorkshire.

Building her first business in the fashion industry before starting a second business, whilst also working as a director in her family’s automotive business – as well as juggling her own family - has all given Linda a real understanding of the challenges women face in building a career.

Her current high profile roles include Pro-Chancellor/Chair of the University of Leeds, Deputy Chair of Yorkshire Forward, the Regional Development Agency for Yorkshire and the Humber, and Chair of NHS Leeds. She is on the Strategy and Skills Board of the Higher Educational Funding Council and the Board of Welcome to Yorkshire, as well as Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire.

Her latest new role as Coutts’ women’s ambassador will see Linda continue the work started by Sarah Deaves in ‘providing private banking and wealth management services for women’.

Linda commented: “I was flattered and surprised when Sarah approached me to take on the role, but I am not overawed by it as I see it as an extension of my day job.

“What I really want to do is see how we can grow the women’s initiative and ensure that we have a great reputation in place at Coutts for supporting women, and inspire more women to bank with us. Sarah has made a brilliant start, and I want to continue this and ensure the women’s initiative does not lose any momentum.”

Coutts’ women’s initiative was launched in 2006 and has taken great strides in reflecting and supporting the changing demographic of women in the UK. Innovative events, such as fly fishing, car racing, fashion shows and charity lunches, have helped to break down barriers and encourage networking and discussion between women clients. And the online magazine Coutts Woman, now has over 8,500 readers.

Although it’s too early for Linda to share her plans, she is relishing the challenge. “We need to make sure Coutts is embedded into the psyche of any woman out there. I am looking forward to the ambassador role and can’t wait to get out there, meet people and make a difference,” she concluded.

By Rupa Sudra