Unity Trust Bank has appointed Joshua Meek as its new Chief Impact Officer (CIO), marking a significant step in the bank’s mission to deliver social and environmental benefits alongside financial returns. This appointment comes as part of Unity’s ongoing commitment to responsible banking and sustainable development.
Meek, who previously held the role of Head of Impact and Sustainability at Unity, is expected to play a central role in advancing the bank’s ‘double bottom line’ strategy. This approach focuses on maximising positive outcomes for people and the planet, while ensuring financial stability. In his new role, Meek will drive forward Unity’s impact initiatives, aligning them with the bank’s broader mission to create a better society through responsible banking practices.
One of Meek’s key responsibilities will be to lead the development of Unity’s ‘theory of change’ in collaboration with New Philanthropy Capital (NPC), a consultancy focused on improving social outcomes. This roadmap will help guide the bank’s future actions in line with its goal of creating meaningful, positive change.
Unity Trust Bank is well-known for its commitment to sustainability and was one of the early adopters of the Impact Management Platform’s ‘ABC Impact Classification’ system, which brings transparency to the impact of its lending practices. The bank has also been proactive in supporting green initiatives, including its participation in the Housing Associations’ Charitable Trust (HACT) ‘Retrofit Credits’ programme, aimed at reducing carbon emissions in housing projects.
Commenting on his new role, Meek said: “As Chief Impact Officer, I am excited to work with colleagues, customers, and partners to enhance Unity’s position as the bank of choice for socially-conscious organisations across the UK. We will focus not only on our own business practices but also on supporting our customers in their sustainability journeys.”
A key element of Unity’s approach will be helping customers transition to net-zero emissions by 2050. Meek emphasised the importance of inclusivity in this transition, stating that Unity will provide the support and guidance needed to help customers adapt to climate change and build resilience for future challenges.
Unity Trust Bank is part of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV), an international network of independent banks dedicated to promoting sustainable economic, social, and environmental development. Meek reiterated Unity’s commitment to transparency and accountability in its impact efforts, stating: “At Unity, we take a proactive approach to impact management, ensuring that we continuously learn and improve the outcomes we support.”
Colin Fyfe, CEO of Unity Trust Bank, praised Meek’s appointment, highlighting his proven expertise and personal dedication to driving positive change within the sector. Fyfe said: “Joshua’s deep understanding of impact management will be invaluable in helping Unity continue to lead the way in delivering business banking with a social conscience.”
Unity Trust Bank was founded in 1984 by the trade union movement to serve the common good. In 2024, it reported record levels of lending, with 40% of loans directed to organisations in areas of high deprivation. The bank also received the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development this year, in recognition of its commitment to responsible business practices.
To mark its 40th anniversary, Unity launched the Unity Impact Grants Programme, providing funding for community-enhancing projects, and pledged £40,000 to good causes. For more information, visit www.unity.co.uk