Chris Hayward will be leaving in early 2026, following a 47-year career at the buying society.

NMBS CEO Chris Hayward has announced his plans to step down from his current role in early 2026, following a 47-year career at NMBS.

Hayward started his career with NMBS in 1977 as an office junior - a position which at the time was the equivalent of a modern-day apprentice. Having worked his way through the business and enjoyed roles in finance, sales and marketing, Hayward became CEO of NMBS in 2022. This followed more than 20 years as Managing Director and over 47 years’ service in total at NMBS.

Over this time, NMBS has grown to be the largest buying group in the UK for independent building, plumbing and heating, hardware, tools and timber merchants, with an annual turnover in excess of £2.22 billion, with more than 1,230 independent merchant members and 4,749 branches.

During his tenure, Hayward has focused on the strategic development of NMBS, including the amalgamation with United Merchants in 2014 which effectively doubled the annual turnover, while simultaneously driving up member returns.

Hayward has also supported the wider merchant industry with his work as the elected president of EURO-MAT, the leading European cooperation of independent builders’ merchants, which he has recently stepped down from after nine years of service.

His extensive experience and insight into this industry allowed Hayward to understand the needs of the merchants across Europe and increase their profits, while gaining benefits for suppliers.

Hayward learnt the impact that effective support and guidance can have early in a career, so has passionately supported the next generation joining the independent builders’ merchant industry throughout his career.

To help celebrate NMBS’s 60th anniversary in 2023, Hayward led the drive to help successfully recruit over 60 apprentices into the businesses of its members and suppliers, with support from the Builders Merchants Federation and LEAP. This campaign has already exceeded 150 apprentices since it was launched.

Hayward said: “Well, 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. It’s been an incredible ride – one filled with hard work, great people, and plenty of wonderful memories I’ll forever carry with me.

"When I started this journey, I never imagined how much it would shape my life, and I’m beyond grateful for everyone who has been part of it along the way.

“While I may be stepping away, I know the business will be in great hands, with a great team and culture and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for it. As for me? Let’s say I plan on enjoying more free time, however, still look forward to maintaining some kind of active role in an industry which has always held such a special place in my heart and is so important to the UK economy."

Hayward added: “I would like to thank each person who has played a part in my career, from my mentors and colleagues to our merchant members and suppliers, friends and family who have supported me over the years. You have all made my working life fulfilling and enjoyable and I look forward to watching the future of NMBS.”

Jeremy Miller, Non-Executive Chairman, added: “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.

“On behalf of everyone at NMBS, we wish Chris every success for the future.”