Barclays Wealth, the UK wealth management firm, has appointed Joanna Chu as managing director and co-head of North Asia for its private banking business.

Ms Chu, who has more than 20 years of experience in the Hong Kong market, has worked in the past eight years as head of private banking and trust services at Hang Seng Bank’s wealth management business.

Along with Philip Fan, she will be jointly responsible for the day-to-day management of the private banking business in North Asia, reporting directly to Didier von Daeniken, chief executive, Asia Pacific, Barclays Wealth. Her appointment takes effect immediately.

In addition, Barclays Wealth also hired a team of three senior bankers from Hang Seng Bank, all with significant experience in serving the ultra-high and high net worth client segments in Hong Kong.

Lisa Yam and Charles Li, both with over 20 years of banking experience, join as directors, while Sarah Chin joins as associate director.

Mr von Daeniken said: “The successful hiring of Joanna Chu and a team of senior private bankers is further proof that Barclays Wealth has the right client value proposition and brand profile to attract very established and experienced bankers with proven track records.  These hires further underscore our strategic focus and commitment to the private banking business in Asia.”