Pilling, who will report to First Direct's chief executive, Richard Kimber, replaces Richard Dixon, who left in August to join the mortgage company Paymentshield.
In his new role, Pilling will oversee the development of customer service and create a stronger sales culture within the organisation. He will also be involved in the marketing of the First Direct brand. However, his appointment does not affect the position of First Direct's head of brand marketing, Matthew Higgins.