Russell Investments has named Michelle Seitz its new chief executive officer.
Based at the global asset manager’s headquarters in Seattle, Seitz succeeds Len Brennan, who will serve as chairman of the firm until the end of 2017 when he’ll become a strategic advisor to Russell Investments. Seitz will also become chairman of the board effective Jan. 1, 2018.
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With more than 30 years of asset management experience, Seitz joins the firm after 16 years leading William Blair Investment Management. Of note during that time, she led the growth of the firm’s institutional business, from US$2.3 billion in assets under management to US$65 billion. Prior to assuming leadership of William Blair Investment Management in 2001, Seitz led the firm’s private wealth management businesses. Her previous experience also includes senior portfolio management roles with Concord Investment Co. and NationsBank, which became Bank of America in 1998.
“We are excited to welcome Michelle as Russell Investments’ new CEO, and believe that her forward-looking leadership will help propel the firm into a new phase of evolution and growth that will benefit clients and associates alike,” said Todd Crockett, managing director of TA Associates, in a news release. The firm, along with Reverence Capital Partners, acquired Russell Investments in 2016.