A STEVENSTON woman has risen up the ranks of the financial technology industry to become the first female chief operating officer (COO) at an innovative branch banking firm.

OneBanks Hub, which launched a kiosk in Kilwinning’s Co-op this time last year, has appointed Marianne Breen-Hart to the COO position.

Former Auchenharvie Academy pupil Marianne joins the company from accountancy firm PWC, where she was chief of staff in the UK risk business, responsible for strategy and execution. She was previously director of technology, data and analytics at the company.

A winner of the Technology and Digital Women of the Future Award in 2019, Marianne is well placed to drive OneBanks Hub’s growth from the three pilot kiosks currently operating in Kilwinning, Lochgelly and Denny.

Marianne said: “I am so pleased to be announced as the first female chief

operating officer at a company that is looking to tackle digital poverty in such a positive way.

She added: “Naturally, as someone who grew up in Stevenston, attending Auchenharvie Academy, I am thrilled to know we have a kiosk in Kilwinning, which will undoubtedly allow me to spend more time back in Ayrshire where my parents John and Elaine still live.”

Founder and CEO, Duncan Cockburn, said: “As we grow and mature, we need to have a first-class management team, and bringing Marianne on board will ensure that we have what we need to make the difference we know we can make.

“Marianne’s background in technology, innovation and delivery will prove invaluable as we enter the next exciting stage of our development.

“Marianne is passionate about solving societal problems using technology and I know she will be keen to visit our kiosk in Kilwinning close to where she grew up when she starts.”