SEI has hired Brent Wilkins as head of asset management distribution for its Canada office.

Wilkins is charged with developing and maintaining SEI’s distribution network to reach asset targets, as well as presenting the firm’s services to partners, and delivering on its strategic sales plan.

This is a newly-created role at the firm, demonstrating its commitment to the Canadian market, a spokesperson told Family Wealth Report.

Wilkins has a background in sales, joining SEI in Canada from RBC Dexia Investor Services, where he oversaw sales and relationship management for the Americas. In this role he was responsible for sales strategy throughout North America.

As of 30 June 2011, SEI, including all subsidiaries and partners in which it has a significant stake, had $180 billion in assets under management and $250 billion in client assets under administration.