Julie-Ann Haines Appointed CEO of Danske Bank

By: GWL Team | Wednesday, 25 February 2026

Julie-Ann Haines has been appointed as the new CEO of Danske Bank
She will succeed Vicky Davies, who served as the CEO of the bank for five years
She is the former CEO of Principality Building Society, the largest financial services organization in Wales

A new chief executive has been appointed to head Danske Bank, one of the most senior positions in the private sector. Julie-Ann Haines will take up the reins from Vicky Davies in July, after he completed five years in the role.

During her tenure, Danske Bank achieved record-breaking pre-tax profits of over £250 million in 2025, a rise of nearly 15 percent, and a record number of new customers. The bank was also named a world-class workplace by Best Companies. In 2025, Vicky received an OBE for services to the economy in Northern Ireland.

Martin Stewart, the bank’s board chairman, thanked Vicky for her service and said that she was leaving the bank in sound financial health and ready for the future. Stewart described Haines as a "proven leader" with "huge respect" across the financial services sector and said he looked forward to working with her during the transition period.

Julie will be the second female CEO in the 200-year history of Danske Bank. Before becoming a CEO, she had experience in Sainsbury's, Halifax Bank of Scotland, and Reckitt Benkiser.

She also worked in Principality Building Society for 18 years in different positions such as the head of strategy, director of IT, and chief customer officer. Julie became a CEO in 2020.

Julie has experience in the banking sector as well as non-executive positions. She was a member of former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Business Council. She also worked as a chair of the UK Building Societies Association.

She showed her gratitude to Danske Bank as she said, “The bank has deep roots in local society and plays a vital role in the economy. I look forward to engaging with colleagues and customers, and continuing Danske Bank's growth in Northern Ireland and across the UK."