Laura Tough
About Laura Tough
Laura Tough serves as the Head of Member Vulnerability, Access & Inclusion at Nationwide Building Society, where she has worked since 2019. She has extensive experience in the financial services sector, particularly in enhancing access and inclusion for vulnerable members.
Work at Nationwide Building Society
Laura Tough has served as the Head of Member Vulnerability, Access & Inclusion at Nationwide Building Society since 2019. In this role, she focuses on enhancing member access and inclusion within the financial services sector. Her leadership aims to develop strategies that support vulnerable members, ensuring they receive appropriate services and support. Laura's work is integral to the organization's commitment to inclusivity and member welfare.
Previous Experience at Barclays
Prior to her current role, Laura Tough held various positions at Barclays from 2001 to 2019. She was the Head of Citizenship & Consumer Affairs from 2012 to 2017 and served as Segment Head - Customers in Vulnerable Circumstances from 2017 to 2019. Additionally, she was the Head of Consumer & Community Strategy from 2009 to 2012 and the Head of Consumer Agenda from 2006 to 2009. Laura's experience at Barclays has equipped her with a deep understanding of consumer needs and vulnerabilities in the banking sector.
Education and Expertise
Laura Tough holds a Master's Degree in European Politics from Europacollege / College of Europe, which she completed from 2000 to 2001. She also earned a Bachelor's Degree in European Studies & German (Joint Hons) from The University of Manchester from 1996 to 2000. Her educational background supports her expertise in developing strategies to assist vulnerable members in the banking industry, along with her strong focus on stakeholder management and influencing within a matrix environment.
Background in Policy and Public Affairs
Before her extensive career at Barclays, Laura Tough worked at ISDA as a European Policy Officer from 2001 to 2003 and briefly as Assistant Director of European Policy in 2003. She also served as a Public Affairs Manager at Barclays from 2003 to 2006. This background in policy and public affairs has contributed to her strategic and analytical approach to leadership in retail banking.