UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has appointed Michael Ellam to lead the government’s efforts to reset relations with the European Union.

Ellam, a former adviser to ex-Prime Minister Gordon Brown, will leave his position at HSBC to take on the newly established role of second permanent secretary for European Union and International Economic Affairs in the Cabinet Office.

The appointment is part of the UK’s strategy to strengthen its post-Brexit relationship with the EU while maintaining national interests.

In his new role, Ellam will oversee official-level talks with EU counterparts, coordinate the UK’s participation in international summits such as the G7 and G20, and manage the EU Relations Secretariat within the Cabinet Office.

Ellam expressed enthusiasm for the position, stating, 'I am thrilled to return to the civil service and take on this significant agenda.

I look forward to working with the Prime Minister and others to achieve the government’s objectives.'

The reset strategy, a key part of Starmer’s agenda since Brexit, aims to rebuild diplomatic and economic ties with the EU. The initiative includes plans for an informal summit with EU leaders in February 2025, marking the first such gathering since the conclusion of Brexit negotiations.

The UK government has emphasized that the approach seeks to strengthen alliances without reintroducing arrangements like the single market or customs union.

This appointment underscores the government’s commitment to recalibrating its relationship with the EU while addressing broader international economic and security priorities.