ANZ has announced that Alex Thursby, CEO International and Institutional Banking, will step down from the role following his decision to take up the role Chief Executive of an unspecified bank in the Middle East.

ANZ Chief Executive, Mike Smith, paid thanks to Mr Thursby for his role in developing and implementing the group’s super regional strategy.

“He has helped to transform ANZ creating the foundation of a very significant business in Asia Pacific,” Mr Smith said.

“While I know his new role represents a natural next step in his international banking career and more recently he has had a personal desire to be closer to his family’s base in the United Kingdom, Alex’s leadership and passion will be missed by all of us at ANZ.

In line with ANZ’s succession planning process the bank will evaluate internal and external candidates. During that time, Gilles Planté, CEO Asia Pacific and Steve Bellotti, Managing Director Global Markets and Loans will assume Mr Thursby’s responsibilities and report to ANZ Chief Executive Officer Mike Smith on an interim basis from 1 May.