Citibank Europe, which is headquartered in Ireland, has announced the appointment of a new chief executive.

Citi, a leading global bank with operations in 21 countries across Europe, said Zdenek Turek would assume the role.

The pan-European bank employs 9,000 people, 2,500 of which are based in Dublin.

Mr Turek has been with the bank since 1991 and replaces Aidan Brady who is retiring after 30 years.

Speaking about his appointment, Mr Turek said: “Citi’s strategy is to create a simpler, safer, smaller and stronger institution. Over the last 50 years, Citi in Ireland has grown from 200 employees in 1965 to 2,500 today.

“The growth of Citibank Europe demonstrates Citi’s faith in the leadership team and its ability to attract and retain skilled workers across many different functions.

“It is also testament to Citi’s belief in Ireland as a stable entity and we look forward to continuing to grow our operations here. I am very pleased to be joining the team in Ireland as chief executive of this pan-European bank.”

Minister of State with responsibility for international financial services Simon Harris said the bank's presence was "a strong vote of confidence" in the State.

“I’m delighted to not only join Aidan and Zdenek in passing on the baton of Citi leadership in Ireland, but also to see the commitment of Citi to grow its operations in Ireland,” he said.

“It is a strong vote of confidence in the quality of our operating environment and of our workforce.”