Robert Kelly Bids Farewell to ABCUL After Six Years as CEO

Thursday 27 February 2025

The Association of British Credit Unions Ltd (ABCUL) has announced that its CEO, Robert Kelly stepped down from his role on Friday, 28 February 2025.

Robert has led ABCUL for six years, playing a crucial role in shaping the organisation and the wider credit union sector. Commenting on his departure, Robert said: “Leading ABCUL has been an incredible privilege, and I am immensely grateful to the board, staff, and our dedicated member credit unions for their unwavering support. The future is bright for the sector, and I have full confidence that ABCUL’s staff team will continue to provide exceptional service to its members.”

During his tenure, Robert spearheaded ABCUL’s “Vision 2025,” setting the strategic direction for the sector and advocating for key policy reforms. Under his leadership, ABCUL navigated challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic while enhancing member support and strengthening sustainability through mergers and legislative progress.

The passage of new Credit Union Legislation in 2023 marked a significant milestone, enabling credit unions to expand their services and drive sector-wide growth. Most recently, Robert launched ABCUL’s Community Development Credit Union (CDCU) project, which he believes will serve as a catalyst for future expansion.

Paul Norgrove, ABCUL President, commented: “Robert’s leadership has been truly inspiring, and his dedication to ABCUL and the wider credit union movement has been unwavering.

“His commitment to the credit union ethos of people helping people, and his deep sense of duty to staff and members, have been at the heart of everything he does. On behalf of the Board, I thank Robert for his outstanding contributions and wish him every success in the future.”