First Republic Bank has appointed Michelle Watson as director of research of First Republic Wealth Advisors. Ms Watson will help set asset allocation strategy, drive the selection of independent money managers, and provide expertise in selecting investment offerings for First Republic clients. Prior to joining First Republic, Ms Watson worked for US Trust in New York City and Seattle, and CTC Consulting in Tacoma, Washington. Prior to that, she was financial consultant and portfolio manager at Salomon Smith Barney.