Browne will take up his appointment on 1 September 2012.
He is currently head of government relations for Morgan Stanley for Europe, Middle East and Africa and was previously Mayoral Policy Director for Economic Development for Boris Johnson, responsible for economic and business policy for London, as well as being 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 the think tank Policy Exchange and prior to that was a journalist for nearly twenty years for the Times, the Observer and the BBC.
BBA chairman Marcus Agius said: "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. He has a tough act to follow but I am sure he will be a highly effective voice for the industry."
Knight said:“I am delighted that Anthony is to be the new chief executive of the BBA. He is well known to the staff and many of the members: we are really looking forward to his taking up the role.”
And Browne said:“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.”
