New York-listed First Republic has brought in a private banker specializing in the entertainment industry in Southern California.

Kathy Attaii, who has been appointed as managing director in Century City, joined the firm from Comerica Bank in Los Angeles, where she was a private banker. First Republic’s Century City office specializes in the entertainments industry and has developed a network of relationships with business managers, entertainment lawyers talent agencies, publicists and artists, the firm said.

In her new role Attaii will work with individuals, families, businesses and foundations, providing banking, investment management, trust, brokerage and real estate lending services.

Over the last few months both HSBC and City National have brought in entertainment specialists for their private banking divisions, as the financial and lifestyle challenges faced by these professionals, such as short and intense earning periods, are unique.

As well as some of the large firms creating dedicated divisions, small firms have sprung up catering specifically to these markets. Most recently, Duff McKagan, the former bassist of rock legends Guns N' Roses and Velvet Revolver, set up his own wealth management firm with musicians as the target market.