Swansea Building Society chief marks 25 years with £25,000 charity pledge

Daniel Bevan - Editor

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Swansea Building Society chief executive Alun Williams has marked 25 years leading the mutual with the launch of a £25,000 charitable fund and the release of an interview reflecting on his tenure.

Williams, believed to be the UK’s longest-serving building society chief executive, said the funding would support charities and community organisations across Wales during 2026.

The initiative is in addition to the Society’s existing charitable activity, including its partnership with Prostate Cymru, its official charity partner for 2026.

The announcement comes as Swansea Building Society reports continued long-term growth, with total assets reaching £715 million at the end of December 2025, compared with £34 million when Williams joined the Society in 2001.

Appointed chief executive at the age of 36, Williams was one of the youngest building society CEOs in the UK at the time.

During his tenure, the Society has expanded its branch network across Wales while also investing in digital services, including the launch of a mobile banking app in 2025.

Alongside its financial performance, Swansea Building Society has increased its profile through sponsorships and partnerships across Wales, including backing for organisations such as Swansea City AFC, the Ospreys, Swansea RFC and Glamorgan County Cricket Club.

Its naming rights agreement for the Swansea Building Society Arena has also strengthened its visibility in the city.

The newly announced £25,000 fund follows previous community initiatives, including a £100,000 charity and community programme during the Society’s centenary year.

To mark the milestone, Williams took part in a filmed interview with Swansea-born broadcaster and musician Mal Pope, discussing the Society’s development and challenges including the global financial crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Alun Williams, Chief Executive of Swansea Building Society, said: “It has been a privilege to lead Swansea Building Society over the past 25 years.

“When I joined, the priority was clear, to grow the Society in a sustainable way while staying true to its purpose as a mutual organisation.

“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together as a team. Our success is built on the trust of our members, the dedication of our staff, and our commitment to the communities we serve. Ensuring the Society remains strong for future generations has always been at the heart of every decision we’ve made.

“As we mark this milestone, it felt important to recognise the communities that have supported the Society throughout its history. The additional £25,000 charitable fund is a way of giving something back and supporting organisations that make a genuine difference to people’s lives across Wales.”