Upstart, the leading AI lending marketplace, today announced that Tim Wennes has been appointed to the company's Board of Directors, effective May 28, 2026. Wennes brings over 35 years of financial services experience to Upstart. He most recently served as President and CEO of Santander Holdings USA, including Santander Bank N.A., where he oversaw assets in excess of $200B and led a digital and strategic transformation of the bank's US operations.
Upstart appoints Tim Wennes to Board of Directors effective May 28, 2026; former President and CEO of Santander Holdings USA.
Wennes has over 35 years of financial services experience; previously held executive roles at MUFG Union Bank and Countrywide Bank.
Serves on board of directors of Cushman & Wakefield Ltd.
Jeff Huber stepping down from Board after five years of service.
Upstart connects consumers to more than 100 banks and credit unions; over 90% of loans are fully automated.
Upstart platform includes personal loans, automotive retail and refinance loans, home equity lines of credit, and Cash Line product.
“Tim brings decades of experience in every flavor of consumer lending, most notably auto,” said Paul Gu, CEO of Upstart. “His background is a perfect match for Upstart as we scale towards our ambition of having the best credit product for every segment of American consumers.”
“Upstart is at the forefront of a fundamental shift in how credit is delivered,” said Wennes. “Having spent my career at the intersection of banking and innovation, I am honored to join the Board at a time when AI is becoming essential to the future of financial services. I look forward to helping the team deliver better outcomes for both borrowers and institutional partners.”
“We want to thank Jeff Huber for his incredible service and guidance during a pivotal era of growth for Upstart,” said Gu. “His contributions have helped set the stage for the next chapter of our mission.”
Upstart is the leading AI lending marketplace, connecting millions of consumers to more than 100 banks and credit unions that leverage Upstart's AI models and cloud applications to deliver superior credit products. With Upstart AI, lenders can approve more borrowers at lower rates while delivering the exceptional digital-first experience customers demand. More than 90% of loans are fully automated, with no human intervention by Upstart. Founded in 2012, Upstart's platform includes personal loans, automotive retail and refinance loans, home equity lines of credit, and Upstart's new Cash Line product, a revolving line of credit.