Nationwide customer vows to continue boardroom campaign after election defeat

James Sherwin-Smith has pledged to stand again for Nationwide's board in 2027 and launch a campaign for democratic reforms after failing to win a seat.

• Sherwin-Smith secured about 12.5% of the vote (75,939 members) at Nationwide's annual general meeting, falling short of the 50% threshold required to join the board.
• He announced plans to run again at the 2027 AGM and called on other members to come forward as board candidates.
• Sherwin-Smith also launched a campaign to trigger a special general meeting to end the quick-vote system and guarantee at least two member-nominated directors.
• Nationwide stated that 88% of members decided against electing Sherwin-Smith, adding that the board's recommendations received overwhelming support.