SHORT HILLS, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Wachovia Global Securities Lending (WGSL) announced today the following business development appointments. These new hires are part of an effort to enhance marketing efforts, expand sales initiatives, and deepen client relationships.

Darren Ansell has been named Senior Vice President of WGSL’s sales endeavors in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA). Based in London, Darren is responsible for new business development and expanding the WGSL platform in the EMEA regions, including pension funds, corporate entities and government institutions. Darren has more than 20 years experience in securities lending, most recently serving as Director of Securities Finance at Citi, where he was responsible for introducing new clients and prospects to the agency lending program for both custodial and non-custodial clients. Previously, Darren held a variety of positions at five major investment banks.

Lori Buffum has been named Regional Sales Executive, based in Chicago. In this role, she is responsible for new business development and expanding the WGSL platform in the Western United States, Illinois and Michigan. Previously, Lori was a member of the Defined Contribution Institutional Sales team for Wells Capital Management. Prior to that, she led the Public Sector sales effort for Evergreen Investments. Before joining Evergreen Investments in 2003 Lori worked for Oechsle International and State Street Global Advisors. She graduated with a degree in Economics from Bates College.

Michelle Riffelmacher has been named Marketing Manager, based in Short Hills, NJ. In this role, she is responsible for developing the marketing strategy for WGSL. Michelle joins the company from State Street where she spent six years in the Securities Finance division. Her responsibilities there included domestic equity trading and international equity trade support. Michelle has extensive experience with non-cash collateral securities lending programs. She graduated with a degree in International Studies from Colby College.

Darren, Lori and Michelle will report to John Menard, Director of New Business Development for WGSL.

“We are pleased to have these talented individuals join the WGSL business development team,” said Kevin O’Connor, head of WGSL. “Given their collective experience, extensive industry network connections, and excellent sales track record we are confident that they will make immediate and valuable positive contributions to our sales team."

About Wachovia Global Securities Lending

Wachovia Global Securities Lending (WGSL) is a trade name of the securities lending services provided by Wells Fargo Bank N. A. and affiliates, including Wells Fargo Securities International Limited, who are authorized and regulated by the U.K. Financial Services Authority.

WGSL is a proven and respected financial services provider specializing in securities finance. WGSL delivers the resources, risk management, financial options, performance and superior customer service required in today's marketplace. Our legacy continues to be one of superior relationship building, with strategies ranging across a wide array of asset classes and a commitment to delivering optimal risk-adjusted securities lending returns. WGSL has emerged as one of the largest, most respected third-party securities-lending groups in the country with offices in New Jersey, California, Minnesota and London. Our focus on our customers' needs is unwavering. Liquidity, Transparency and Trust are the overwhelming themes that continue to drive our program. To learn more about our firm please visit www.wgsl.com.