"Whether it’s buying a first home, investing in property, or managing specialist needs, customers will benefit from a more joined-up approach"
- Simon Watson - YBS
Customer focus is central to Yorkshire Building Society’s latest mortgage transformation, which brings together three separate mortgage businesses under a single ‘Homes’ division. The move aims to simplify processes, accelerate decisions, and provide more consistent outcomes for customers and brokers, building on the strengths of each existing channel.
The new division lays the foundation for a fully connected experience across all aspects of home ownership. It is also intended to support further product development and innovation, following initiatives such as the £5,000 deposit mortgage launched in 2024, ensuring that solutions continue to meet evolving customer needs.
Tom Simpson will become managing director of Homes, overseeing strategy, proposition, and distribution across Yorkshire Building Society, Accord Mortgages, and YBS Commercial. His responsibilities will include mortgage advice and intermediary partnerships, ensuring a consistent approach to growth and customer experience across all three brands. Simpson will also join the Accord board. While the brands themselves will remain distinct, his appointment reflects the Society’s commitment to consolidating expertise in home ownership and driving growth and innovation.
The Homes division will bring together residential, specialist, buy-to-let, and commercial mortgage functions under one roof. The goal is to create a streamlined, integrated experience for both customers and brokers.
Tom Simpson said, "I’m delighted to take on this new role at such an exciting time. By bringing together three successful businesses, we can deliver a simpler, more connected experience and respond quickly to changing needs. Our ultimate goal is to make home ownership easier and more accessible, and this transformation gives us the tools to do just that."
Simon Watson, chief customer officer, said, "This transformation is about making life easier for our customers. By simplifying how we work and connecting our expertise, we can respond faster, innovate more effectively, and deliver mortgage solutions that truly make a difference. Whether it’s buying a first home, investing in property, or managing specialist needs, customers will benefit from a more joined-up approach. I’m delighted that Tom will lead this new function, bringing his experience and vision to ensure we deliver on our ambition to create a seamless, customer-focused service."
The change represents a significant step in the mutual’s ambition to provide a market-leading proposition for brokers and customers. It builds on strong foundations while creating opportunities for growth.
As part of the transition, Angela Norman will continue as managing director of YBS Commercial, and Jeremy Duncombe will continue as managing director of Accord Mortgages. Both will play key roles within the Homes leadership team.
The transition to the new structure is scheduled to be complete by 1 January 2026, ensuring that Yorkshire Building Society continues to focus on helping people achieve their home ownership goals now and in the future.
