UK buying society for Independent Builders, Plumbers, Hardware, Timber and Engineering Merchants NMBS has announced that CEO Chris Hayward will step down from his current role in 2026.
Hayward became CEO of NMBS in 2022 after more than 20 years as managing director. He started his career with NMBS in 1977 as an office junior - a position which was the equivalent of a modern-day apprentice.
During his tenure in senior positions, Hayward has focused on the strategic development of NMBS, including the amalgamation with United Merchants in 2014, which doubled the annual turnover while simultaneously driving up member returns.
“After 47 years, I think it’s time to seek out new adventures and challenges and step away from a business that has been a privilege to lead for so much of my professional life,” Hayward said.
Jeremy Miller, non-executive chairman at NMBS, commented: “Chris has a vast knowledge and passion for the independent merchant sector, and it has been an honour to work alongside him. We have now started the recruitment process for Chris’s replacement to allow for a seamless transition for NMBS employees, suppliers and members.”
Previously, NMBS announced that this year's NMBS Exhibition edition will take place on 10 and 11 April at the Coventry Building Society Arena.
