State Street Global Advisors has appointed Ann Prendergast as the new head of its business across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With over 23 years of experience at the company, Prendergast takes over from Rory Tobin, who retired in June after nine years at the asset manager.

Prendergast’s previous role saw her oversee portfolio management, distribution, product development, fund management, and operations across the EU. This year, she was recognized as one of Financial News’s 100 most influential women in finance. With her new Emea role, State Street’s fund management business now boasts two women in top leadership positions.

As part of her new position, 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 to lead the Emea region’s fund management business. She cited Prendergast’s deep industry knowledge, strong client orientation, regulatory experience and leadership strengths as key factors that make her an ideal fit for the role. This appointment comes as State Street Global Advisors continues to make strides in the asset management industry.