Mr Aigrain will replace Chris Tupker, who has been chairman since July 2006 and who announced his intention to step down in September 2009.

Commenting on the appointment Chris Tupker, chairman, LCH.Clearnet said: "Jacques' wealth of experience in the financial sector will be a great asset to the company and the markets it serves as LCH.Clearnet continues to work with its users to develop its leading position in clearing markets internationally."

He continued: "My four years at LCH.Clearnet have been both exciting and challenging. Last year's capital restructuring was the final step in a three year programme to align ownership and usership more closely and the group is now positioned well for the future."

Mr Aigrain was CEO of Swiss Re from 2006 to 2009, a company which he joined in 2001 as Head of Financial Services, New York. Prior to this he spent 19 years with JP Morgan Chase, working in a number of senior roles in its New York, London and Paris offices.

Mr Aigrain will work from the company's London office and is due to commence his duties on 6 April 2010.