Alexa Henderson a first for Scottish Building Society

THE Scottish Building Society has appointed the first female chairman in its 163-year history.

Alexa Henderson will take over the role from David Chalmers, who held the position for the last five years. Henderson has been the society's vice-chairman since 2006.

Henderson, a chartered accountant, said: "We have a great brand with a loyal membership and even in these tough financial times, the society has an enviable financial strength and is continuing to thrive and prosper."

Henderson, who lives in Edinburgh, has worked with KPMG and Arthur Andersen in Edinburgh and Melbourne, and is a past director of the WM Company. Non-executive director Rob Golbourn, a former head of Scottish Widows Bank, has taken over the position of vice-chairman.