Bartels comes to that position after having most recently served as head of technical and market analysis for Bank of America Merrill Lynch Global Research. She has served for 17 years at the firm. In her new role, Bartels will head the “portfolios strategy desk, ETF strategies, and the marketing and communications around IMG’s content platform, product launches and publications,” Andy Sieg, head of Global Wealth and Retirement Solutions, said in a memo sent to employees on Tuesday that announced the appointment.
“Mary Ann is one of the most talented strategists in the industry and her joining the [Investment Management and Guidance] team will add tremendous value to our clients and advisors,” Sieg said. “During her 17 years at the firm, Mary Ann’s name has become synonymous with high-quality portfolio strategy and research, earning her the respect of our clients and her peers in the industry.”
Bartels replaces Rick Galiardo, who left the firm several weeks ago.
The firm plans to announce a new chief investment officer and head of the Investment Management and Guidance group in the “coming weeks,” Sieg said, while Chris Wolfe temporarily serves in that role. In addition, the firm will also announce new details on the structure of the Global Research division group, he said.
