Santander Holdings USA Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Santander Holdings USA has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, technology policy, data governance, marketing, legal affairs, and corporate communications.

Focused on delivering robust financial solutions across North American markets, Santander Holdings USA maintains a commitment to operational excellence and sustainable growth for a diverse customer base.

Leadership Roles at Santander Holdings USA

  • Chief Executive Officer & President (Santander US) - Christiana Riley
  • Chief Financial Officer - Maj Malmsten
  • Chief Financial Officer, Santander (US) - Juan Soto
  • Director, Head of US T & O Policy Administration (US T & O and Global Chief Information Officer Program) - Elda Polena
  • Senior Director, Data Governance and CDO Chief of Staff - Juan P.
  • Chief Marketing Officer, Santander Bank, US & Openbank, Global - Cenk Bulbul
  • Chief Legal Officer - Brian Yoshida
  • Chief Communications Officer - Eva Radtke
  • Christiana Riley - Chief Executive Officer & President (Santander US)

    Christiana Riley, the Chief Executive Officer & President (Santander US) at Santander Holdings USA, directs the overarching strategic vision for all domestic financial subsidiaries. Overseeing the integration of banking services across the United States, the Chief Executive Officer & President (Santander US) ensures alignment with the global objectives of the parent organization. This leadership role involves managing complex regulatory environments while driving expansion across North American markets. By optimizing the performance of the six primary financial companies, Christiana Riley directly impacts the long-term stability and market competitiveness of the firm. The Chief Executive Officer & President (Santander US) collaborates with the Board to refine capital allocation strategies and enhance customer value propositions. Through rigorous oversight of operational efficiency, the executive maintains the firm's position as a premier financial institution, fostering growth and innovation within the competitive landscape of modern banking.
    Christiana Riley

    Maj Malmsten - Chief Financial Officer

    Maj Malmsten, the Chief Financial Officer at Santander Holdings USA, manages the fiscal health and capital structure of the entire domestic enterprise. Overseeing financial reporting, treasury operations, and risk assessment, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the organization maintains strict compliance with international banking standards. This role involves coordinating with global counterparts to synchronize financial planning across the U.S. and international markets. By implementing advanced analytical frameworks, Maj Malmsten drives profitability and optimizes resource distribution across the various subsidiaries. The Chief Financial Officer monitors market trends to mitigate economic volatility, ensuring the firm remains resilient against shifting financial landscapes. Through precise management of balance sheets and investment portfolios, the executive supports the broader mission of sustainable growth. Malmsten provides the necessary financial intelligence to guide executive decision-making, ultimately securing the fiscal integrity required to support millions of customers throughout the diverse operational footprint of the company.

    Juan Soto - Chief Financial Officer, Santander (US)

    Juan Soto, the Chief Financial Officer, Santander (US) at Santander Holdings USA, manages the specific financial performance and budgetary planning for the U.S. banking division. Overseeing the allocation of capital and the monitoring of operational expenses, the Chief Financial Officer, Santander (US) ensures that the bank maintains liquidity and profitability targets. This role involves working closely with the broader holding company to align regional financial goals with global corporate strategy. By optimizing the cost structure of the banking operations, Juan Soto drives efficiency and supports the expansion of retail and commercial services. The Chief Financial Officer, Santander (US) provides critical financial analysis to the leadership team, enabling data-backed decisions regarding investment and growth. Through rigorous oversight of the bank's financial health, the executive ensures the institution remains a stable and reliable partner for customers. Soto secures the financial foundation necessary for the bank to thrive within the competitive U.S. market.
    Juan Soto

    Elda Polena - Director, Head of US T & O Policy Administration (US T & O and Global Chief Information Officer Program)

    Elda Polena, the Director, Head of US T & O Policy Administration (US T & O and Global Chief Information Officer Program) at Santander Holdings USA, architects the technological governance frameworks that secure the firm's digital infrastructure. Overseeing policy administration for technology and operations, the Director, Head of US T & O Policy Administration (US T & O and Global Chief Information Officer Program) ensures that all systems align with global cybersecurity standards and regulatory requirements. This role involves bridging the gap between local operational needs and the global information officer program to maintain seamless service delivery. By standardizing technical protocols, Elda Polena drives efficiency across the various U.S. subsidiaries. The Director, Head of US T & O Policy Administration (US T & O and Global Chief Information Officer Program) mitigates operational risks through proactive policy development and rigorous oversight. Polena strengthens the technological foundation of the company, enabling secure and scalable banking solutions for a vast customer network.

    Juan P. - Senior Director, Data Governance and CDO Chief of Staff

    Juan P., the Senior Director, Data Governance and CDO Chief of Staff at Santander Holdings USA, manages the integrity and strategic utilization of enterprise data assets. Overseeing the governance framework, the Senior Director, Data Governance and CDO Chief of Staff ensures that information flows securely across all financial subsidiaries to support informed decision-making. This role involves coordinating with the Chief Data Officer to implement advanced data management practices that enhance operational transparency. By refining data architecture, Juan P. drives the development of analytical tools that improve customer service and risk management. The Senior Director, Data Governance and CDO Chief of Staff facilitates cross-departmental collaboration to ensure data consistency throughout the organization. Through the application of robust governance policies, the executive supports the firm's commitment to digital transformation. P. optimizes the value of information, ensuring that the company leverages data-driven insights to maintain a competitive edge in the global financial services sector.

    Cenk Bulbul - Chief Marketing Officer, Santander Bank, US & Openbank, Global

    Cenk Bulbul, the Chief Marketing Officer, Santander Bank, US & Openbank, Global at Santander Holdings USA, directs the brand strategy and customer acquisition initiatives for both domestic banking and global digital platforms. Overseeing marketing campaigns and market positioning, the Chief Marketing Officer, Santander Bank, US & Openbank, Global ensures that the firm's value proposition resonates with diverse customer segments. This role involves integrating digital marketing innovations with traditional banking services to expand the company's reach. By analyzing consumer behavior, Cenk Bulbul drives engagement and strengthens the brand identity across North American and international markets. The Chief Marketing Officer, Santander Bank, US & Openbank, Global collaborates with product teams to launch new financial offerings that meet evolving market demands. Through strategic communication and targeted outreach, the executive enhances the firm's visibility and market share. Bulbul executes high-impact marketing programs that support the company's overarching goal of delivering accessible and modern financial solutions.
    Cenk Bulbul
    Brian Yoshida, the Chief Legal Officer at Santander Holdings USA, directs the legal strategy and regulatory compliance efforts for the entire U.S. organization. Overseeing the legal department, the Chief Legal Officer ensures that all business activities adhere to complex federal and state banking laws. This role involves managing litigation, corporate governance, and contractual obligations across the various subsidiaries. By providing expert legal counsel, Brian Yoshida drives the mitigation of risk and protects the firm's reputation in the marketplace. The Chief Legal Officer collaborates with executive leadership to navigate the evolving regulatory environment, ensuring that strategic initiatives remain compliant and sustainable. Through the development of robust legal frameworks, the executive supports the company's mission to provide secure financial services. Yoshida manages the firm's legal interests with precision, ensuring that all operations align with the highest standards of corporate integrity and legal excellence within the financial services industry.
    Brian Yoshida

    Eva Radtke - Chief Communications Officer

    Eva Radtke, the Chief Communications Officer at Santander Holdings USA, directs the internal and external messaging strategy to maintain the firm's reputation and stakeholder relationships. Overseeing corporate communications, the Chief Communications Officer ensures that the company's mission and values are clearly articulated to customers, employees, and the public. This role involves managing media relations and crisis communication to protect the brand's integrity across North American markets. By crafting compelling narratives, Eva Radtke drives awareness of the firm's commitment to financial inclusion and community support. The Chief Communications Officer collaborates with other C-suite leaders to ensure consistent messaging across all corporate channels. Through strategic communication planning, the executive enhances the firm's standing as a transparent and responsible financial leader. Radtke manages the flow of information to ensure that all stakeholders remain informed and engaged with the company's ongoing progress and strategic developments.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Santander Holdings USA Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Santander Holdings USA?
    Santander Holdings USA is led by Christiana Riley (Chief Executive Officer & President (Santander US)), along with executives such as Maj Malmsten (Chief Financial Officer) and Juan Soto (Chief Financial Officer, Santander (US)).
    Who is part of Santander Holdings USA’s executive team?
    The executive team of Santander Holdings USA includes leaders such as Christiana Riley (Chief Executive Officer & President (Santander US)), Maj Malmsten (Chief Financial Officer), Juan Soto (Chief Financial Officer, Santander (US)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Santander Holdings USA have?
    Santander Holdings USA has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Santander Holdings USA’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Santander Holdings USA includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer & President (Santander US), Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Santander (US), Director, Head of US T & O Policy Administration (US T & O and Global Chief Information Officer Program), Senior Director, Data Governance and CDO Chief of Staff.