Kleinwort Benson Bank has appointed Sally Tennant as chief executive, effective from mid-January 2011 subject to regulatory approval. 

Tennant joins from Lombard Odier Darier Hentsch, the Swiss private bank, where she was chief executive of its London-based private banking operation. 

Tennant replaces Robert Taylor, who joined Kleinwort Benson as chief executive in 2004.

Leonhard Fischer, chief executive of Kleinwort Benson Group and chairman of Kleinwort Benson Bank, says: “We are delighted to welcome Sally to Kleinwort Benson. In an already distinguished career, spanning over 30 years in private banking and wealth management, Sally has held significant management roles in highly regarded organisations. She has also been instrumental in successfully founding and driving forward new businesses.”

Tennant says: “I am delighted to be joining Kleinwort Benson Bank as its new chief executive. This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in the next stage of development of an illustrious brand. I am looking forward to working with the team to build on its strong track record.”