Michael has been a member of the MPC since August 2016 and was UK economist at Citigroup from 1990 to 2016.

From a group of nine, Michael is one of four external members appointed directly by the chancellor.

On 7th December, the Association of Bridging Professionals (AOBP) announced it had changed its name to FIBA as part of its evolution into a new, whole-of-market trade body.

The Association's launch party and annual conference will be taking place at the BAFTA 195 on Piccadilly.

The conference will bring together lenders and intermediaries – including members of the AOBP whose membership will move to FIBA – and will provide opportunities to understand the aims of the trade body and how it can benefit both intermediary and lender members.

A spokesman for the FIBA executive committee commented: “We are delighted to welcome Michael Saunders to speak at the Association's first conference.

“The event is an opportunity not only to hear on record from an MPC member at the heart of shaping economic thinking in the UK – both now and in a post-Brexit future – but also to understand from FIBA's executive committee how brokers and lenders can and will benefit from a close relationship with FIBA.”

All current members, lenders and associates of the AOBP – as well as all brokers, intermediaries and lenders involved in the finance industry – can attend the event next year by registering online.