Anthony Browne has been appointed as the next chief executive of the British Bankers’ Association (BBA) and will take up the role on 1 September 2012.

He will succeed Angela Knight who is stepping down to join Energy UK.

Browne is currently head of government relations for Morgan Stanley for Europe, Middle East and Africa. He was previously Mayoral policy director for economic development for Boris Johnson and on the boards of the London Development Agency and the London Skills and Employment Board.

He helped set up, and is on the board of theCityUK, the promotional body for UK financial services. He was director of right-of-centre think tank Policy Exchange.

“This continues to be a time of change and reform for the banking industry and Anthony brings with him a range of skills and experiences to lead the organisation in facing the challenges arising,” said Marcus Agius, BBA chairman. “He has a tough act to follow but I am sure he will be a highly effective voice for the industry.”

Browne added: “It will be an honour to lead the BBA, helping to resolve the complex issues still surrounding banking five years after the start of the financial crisis. We need to continue to lead on reform, ensuring the banking sector meets the needs and expectations of our customers and shareholders, and can play its pivotal role in returning the UK to economic growth.

“In a time of change and uncertainty, the BBA has a critically important mission to ensure the banking sector returns to health, remains in Britain, and has the trust of the public and politicians.”