HSBC Innovation Banking appoints Simon Bumfrey as interim CEO during its search for a permanent replacement for Erin Platts.
- Simon Bumfrey brings extensive experience from his previous roles at major banks, including a significant tenure at HSBC Innovation Banking.
- Bumfrey’s appointment comes as Erin Platts transitions to a special advisor role before joining Octopus Ventures as CEO in January 2025.
- HSBC highlights Bumfrey’s critical role in the bank’s growth and his commitment to supporting clients and investors.
- Bumfrey aims to bolster HSBC Innovation Banking UK, enhancing its reputation as a leading partner for innovation-driven entities.
HSBC Innovation Banking has appointed Simon Bumfrey as its interim CEO, replacing Erin Platts who is departing for a new opportunity at Octopus Ventures in early 2025. Bumfrey, a banking industry veteran with over 25 years of experience, most recently led the UK’s Relationship Banking Team at HSBC. Before HSBC, he held senior positions at Lloyds Bank, Bank of Ireland, and Barclays.
Bumfrey’s history with HSBC Innovation Banking dates back to its origins as Silicon Valley Bank, which HSBC acquired in 2023. His deep understanding of the bank’s operations is expected to ease the transition as he takes over the leadership reins. His appointment is pending regulatory approval and will officially begin in November.
Erin Platts, the outgoing CEO, will continue to contribute to HSBC as a special advisor until her departure in December. Platts has been instrumental in shaping the bank’s strategies and fostering a unique corporate culture that Bumfrey aims to enhance further. Her move to Octopus Ventures marks a significant career shift as she assumes the role of CEO there.
HSBC has expressed confidence in Bumfrey’s leadership, noting his pivotal role in the bank’s expansion within the technology and life sciences sectors. The bank emphasised his relentless focus on advancing their strategic mission and supporting their valued network of clients and investors. Bumfrey shared his vision of accelerating the bank’s growth and solidifying its stature as a foremost financial partner.
Bumfrey articulates his commitment to building upon the strong foundation laid by Platts, aiming to drive further growth and innovation. His ambition is to position HSBC Innovation Banking as the preeminent partner for founders and investors across various stages of business development.
Simon Bumfrey’s appointment as interim CEO marks a new chapter for HSBC Innovation Banking as it aims for continued growth and leadership in the innovation financial sector.
