Leon joined Money Ready (then MyBnk) in March 2023 and has led the organisation through a period of significant transformation, including developing and launching that strategy. During his tenure, Money Ready strengthened its financial position, modernised systems and processes, and substantially raised its external profile.
In June 2025 the organisation launched its new name and brand identity, and in September 2025 completed the merger with RedSTART Educate, bringing together two organisations with a shared mission. Throughout this period, Money Ready continued to deliver financial education across the UK, building stronger relationships with funders, employers, financial services organisations and policymakers, and helping to position financial education as an essential life skill rather than a nice-to-have.
The Money Ready board has begun the search for a new Chief Executive, supported by executive search firm Cadence Partners.
Leon Ward, outgoing Chief Executive Officer of Money Ready, says:
“Leaving Money Ready is not easy. I am enormously proud of what this organisation has achieved over the last three and half years – the rebrand, the merger, the relationships we have built and, above all, the difference we continue to make to young people and adults across the UK. I leave knowing that Money Ready is in a strong position, with a talented team, a clear strategy and real momentum. I look forward to continuing to champion financial inclusion and literacy in my new role at TaxAid and I will always be grateful to have been part of this chapter of Money Ready’s story.”
I leave knowing that Money Ready is in a strong position, with a talented team, a clear strategy and real momentum. I look forward to continuing to champion financial inclusion and literacy in my new role at TaxAid and I will always be grateful to have been part of this chapter of Money Ready’s story.Leon Ward, CEO, Money Ready
Rhodri Mason, Chair of the Money Ready Board, says:
“Leon has led Money Ready through one of the most significant periods in its history. The rebrand, the merger with RedSTART Educate and the strategic direction he has helped to set have transformed this organisation. We are grateful for his leadership, commitment and everything he has given to Money Ready.
We wish him every success at TaxAid. Leon has built an excellent Senior Leadership Team (SLT), and the Board has every confidence in their ability to continue to lead the organisation through this period of change. We look forward to finding a new Chief Executive who will build on the strong foundations Leon and the SLT have created together.”
Kevin Nicholson, Chair of TaxAid, says:
“We are delighted that Leon is joining TaxAid. He brings a strong track record of leading and growing organisations driven by their purpose, developing services that meet the needs of beneficiaries, and securing the resources and partnerships needed to increase impact.
In recruiting Leon, the Trustees were struck by his ability to develop a clear vision, lead organisational change and maintain a strong focus on the needs of beneficiaries, which he has demonstrated as both an executive and trustee across a number of charities. The Trustees believe that Leon will lead us into an exciting new chapter as we continue to evolve the organisation, strengthen our services and increase our impact.”