Ulster Bank’s chief economist Pat McArdle has retired after more than 13 years with the lender.
He will be replaced by Simon Barry who will become the lead economist for Ulster Bank Group in the Republic of Ireland, with Richard Ramsey appointed to a similar role in the North.
In a statement today Mr McArdle said he had worked in an environment were he could express his views “without fear or favour”.
Prior to joining Ulster Bank Mr McArdle was chief economist at NCB Stockbrokers and also worked at the Department of Finance.