Bank of America Merrill Lynch has named Brian Brille as the new president of its Asia-Pacific operations, in line with the bank's integration strategy for its corporate and investment banking businesses.

Mr Brille is currently the head of corporate and investment banking for the Americas and will be replacing Ki Myung Hong (Kim Hong), who is to become vice chairman for Asia-Pacific. According a statement, Mr Hong will be reporting to Mr Brille, although the bank said this does not equate to a demotion.

"[Mr] Brille's proven track record of leading and integrating the bank's capabilities to deliver for our clients makes him the perfect candidate to build out our footprint for the Asia-Pacific region," said Tom Montag, president of global banking and markets for BoA Merrill. "(Mr) Hong will play a critical role on [Mr] Brille's team, ensuring that we continue to build on our recent progress in the region."

The appointment is widely viewed as a way for Bank of America to continue strengthening its influence over Merrill Lynch in Asia after the former took over the latter early this year.