ClearBank appoints new CEO as Mark Fairless takes the helm
Portfolio - People | Mar 11, 2025 | Business Cloud

London-based FinTech company ClearBank has announced the appointment of Mark Fairless as its new CEO, succeeding co-founder Charles McManus. Fairless, who previously served as the company's CFO and was instrumental in implementing ClearBank's long-term strategy, is expected to steer the firm through its next phase of growth. Before joining ClearBank, Fairless held prominent positions in financial institutions such as M&G Heritage Business, Santander UK, and Barclays Investment Bank, bringing over 20 years of experience to his new role. McManus, after co-founding ClearBank in 2015 and expanding its services to over 250 customers in the UK and Europe, will remain on the company's board as a non-executive member. Peter Herbert, group chair of ClearBank, expressed confidence in Fairless's leadership, emphasizing the firm's plans for European expansion and its positioning as a leading clearing and embedded banking provider. The transition marks a significant milestone in ClearBank's journey, as it looks to capitalize on its strong foundations and continue its growth trajectory under Fairless's guidance. Fairless expressed his enthusiasm for the role, citing ClearBank's strides and potential for further achievements.
Sectors
- Financial Technology (FinTech)
- Banking
Geography
- United Kingdom – ClearBank is based in London and serves customers primarily in the UK.
- Europe – ClearBank has expanded its services to over 250 customers across both the UK and Europe.
Industry
- Financial Technology (FinTech) – The article discusses a leadership change within ClearBank, a FinTech company involved in financial services innovations.
- Banking – ClearBank is positioned as a market-leading clearing and embedded banking provider, making it relevant to the banking industry.
Financials
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
ClearBank | Target Company | Company | A London-based FinTech firm focused on clearing and embedded banking services. |
Mark Fairless | New CEO | Person | Former CFO of ClearBank, recently appointed as CEO to lead the company through its next growth phase. |
Charles McManus | Former CEO and Co-founder | Person | Co-founder of ClearBank, now stepping down as CEO but continues as a non-executive board member. |
Peter Herbert | Group Chair | Person | Group Chair of ClearBank, expressing confidence in the new CEO's leadership. |
Innovate Finance Unicorn Council | Advisory | Charity | McManus remains involved as co-chair, contributing to the industry at large. |