Ann Prendergast, a 23-year veteran of State Street Global Advisors, has been appointed as the new head of the company’s business across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (Emea). She takes over from Rory Tobin, who retired in June after nine years at the asset manager.

In her previous role, Prendergast oversaw portfolio management, distribution, product development, fund management, and operations across the EU. Her expertise and leadership skills have earned her recognition as one of Financial News’s 100 most influential women in finance this year. With her new Emea role, State Street’s fund management business now has two women in top leadership positions.

Prendergast will report directly to State Street Global Advisors president and chief executive, Yie-Hsin Hung. She will lead a team of approximately 500 staff across Emea and continue to be based in State Street’s Dublin office. Hung expressed confidence in Prendergast’s abilities, citing her deep industry knowledge, strong client orientation, regulatory experience, and leadership strengths.

This appointment marks another milestone for State Street Global Advisors as it continues to make strides in the asset management industry.