(Sharecast News) - Metro Bank said on Friday that chief financial officer that James Hopkinson has agreed to step down with immediate effect.

He will leave the business in the first quarter after a period of handover.

Cristina Alba Ochoa has been appointed interim CFO with effect from 15 January. A search process to appoint a permanent successor has begun and an announcement will be made in due course.

The board will comprise seven members until a permanent CFO is appointed.

Chief executive Daniel Frumkin said: "On behalf of the board I'd like to thank James for his support during a pivotal time for the bank and wish him success for the future."