JP Morgan Treasury & Securities Services has bolstered its direct custody and clearing capabilities with the announcement of key hires for its Melbourne and New Zealand operations.

Joining the company as head of Melbourne and New Zealand is Bronwyn Clere, who recently returned from Hong Kong, where she led the programme management function for a major financial firm that services 15 Asia-Pacific markets. She brings over 20 years of industry experience to the role, having covered areas of operations, client service, and programme management across Australia, New Zealand, the Asia-Pacific region, and the UK.

Australia and New Zealand are countries which represent an integral part of the firm's broader growth stategy in the region, Jane Perry, chief executive of JP Morgan Treasury & Securities, Australia and New Zealand, said in a statement.

Joining Clere are Wayne Francis, as head of direct custody and clearing in Australia and New Zealand, and Ben Vanden Boom, as head of WSS operations for Melbourne and New Zealand. Francis and Vanden Boom have been part of JP Morgan since January 2011.

"Direct custody is a natural extension of our existing treasury and securities services business and should enhance both sides of the business. We have already seen examples of how direct custody and our core securities business are providing integrated solutions to benefit our clients and we look forward to identifying further opportunities that strengthen our offering with these recent senior hires," said Perry.