Nationwide customer seeking election to board hits out at lender for ‘unfair’ treatment
James Sherwin-Smith says field tilted against him after decision to give members ‘quick vote’ against candidacy
TL;DR
- James Sherwin-Smith is seeking election to the Nationwide building society's board.
- He criticizes Nationwide for giving members a default 'quick vote' option that includes voting against his candidacy.
- Sherwin-Smith claims this action unfairly tilts the playing field and undermines democratic governance.
- Nationwide's chair, Kevin Parry, stated Sherwin-Smith lacks the necessary experience for the board.
- Sherwin-Smith, a former executive and consultant, argues for diversity of thought on boards and members' right to representation.
- The 'quick vote' system was used in 87% of votes cast last year, posing an uphill battle for Sherwin-Smith.
- Nationwide has also reportedly blocked Sherwin-Smith from amending election materials to inform members about the quick vote.