Ann Prendergast has been appointed as the new head of State Street Global Advisors’ business across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With 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 new Emea role includes portfolio management, distribution, product development, fund management, and operations across the EU. She was recognized as one of Financial News’s 100 most influential women in finance this year. With her appointment, State Street’s fund management business now has two women in top leadership positions.

Reporting directly to State Street Global Advisors president and chief executive Yie-Hsin Hung, Prendergast will lead a team of approximately 500 staff across Emea. She will 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 new appointment comes as State Street Global Advisors continues to make strides in the asset management industry.