The US-headquartered investment firm has boosted its leadership team in Asia.

SEI has hired Brent Bell as head of asset management distribution in Asia as part of its push for growth in the region.

Bell was previously a consultant supporting clients’ distribution strategies in Asia from 2013 to 2015. Before this, he was managing director and head of Asia for Genworth Financial’s lifestyle protection business. He brings more than 20 years of management experience in the financial services industry.

Based in Hong Kong, Bell will lead strategic relationships with large distribution partners, driving sales and revenue growth, and managing the asset management sales plan for Asia. He will report to Kevin Barr, head of SEI’s investment management unit.

“Brent’s expertise in asset management and previous work building out businesses in Asia makes him the ideal individual to grow our presence in the region,” said Barr. 

“As SEI continues to expand its presence internationally, and specifically in Asia, we understand local knowledge, relationships and experience are critical. We’re confident that under Brent’s leadership we will deliver even better solutions and results for our clients in Asia.”

As of the end of 2015, SEI had $262 billion in assets under management and $408 billion in client assets under administration.