Martin Barrett appointed Chief Operating Officer

Published: September 2, 2025

Unity is delighted to announce the appointment of Martin Barrett as Chief Operating Officer (COO), as we continue to drive forward our strategic growth plans.

Martin previously worked at Lloyds Banking Group for 24 years, and brings a wealth of experience in commercial banking, payments, financial crime, and operational and change management.

During this time, Martin held a variety of senior roles within the bank including Change Management Programme Director during Lloyds TSB’s merger with Halifax Bank of Scotland in 2009, Head of Payment Operations for Lloyds Banking Group, and Operations Director.

Most recently, Martin was Managing Director of Banking Operations for Lloyds’ business and commercial customers, with a strong focus on optimising customer journeys.

In his new role, Martin will be responsible for enabling us to best deliver our five-year plan to 2030. His work will focus on unlocking business growth potential in new sectors and segments, improving operational capacity, and strengthening our strategic objectives for the future.

With a commitment to support both current and future customers, Martin will ensure we maintain our purpose-driven and relationship-led banking model, alongside developing and investing in technological solutions and products to create a seamless customer experience.

Commenting on his new role, Martin said: “In my position as COO, I see myself as a flagbearer for service. At Unity, every transaction and interaction is driven by how we can best serve our customers and, in turn, help to deliver positive impact on society. I am committed to upholding Unity’s intentionally human banking approach, and ensuring that we continuously improve and innovate our service offering.

“I’m also proud to support Unity’s double bottom line strategy, which seeks to deliver social impact alongside financial returns. To work for a business with such a strong and transparent purpose, a clear strategy for growth, and a deep commitment to relationship-led banking, is an exciting opportunity and I look forward to driving forward the bank’s future ambitions”.

Colin Fyfe, CEO at Unity Trust Bank, said: “Martin’s extensive banking experience, his proven acumen for operational management, and his personal commitment to service excellence will be of great value to the business as we look to deliver on our five-year strategic plan.

“Martin deeply values our customer-driven proposition, which places people and purpose at the heart of our business growth plans. His leadership skills and expertise will play a vital role in enhancing our services to customers and amplifying our future impact, so we can continue to make a real difference for communities and individuals across the UK.”