San Francisco, CA-headquarterd Wells Fargo has named Jim Hays executive vice president and head of wealth brokerage services - a role in which he will lead an organization of 3,800 financial advisors, while supporting staff delivering brokerage services to clients of Wells Fargo Wealth Management.

According to a statement, Hays was latterly (since 2005) president of the bank's private client group, a division of Wells Fargo Advisors.

In his new role, Hays will also lead the business’ partnership with Wells' network of community bank stores, serving the planning and investment needs of its growing affluent client base. He reports to David Carroll, head of Wells Fargo’s wealth management unit, while "closely aligning with Wells Fargo Advisors," the firm said.

The wealth brokerage services division provides investment advice, planning and access to stocks, bonds, mutual funds and other investments via financial advisors located throughout Wells' banking stores and its wealth management offices.

Prior to joining Wells Fargo Advisors through merged organizations, Hays held leadership positions during an 18-year career with Merrill Lynch, including managing director and head of its private banking/investment group.

Wells Fargo Advisors has $1.2 trillion in client assets, as of June 30.