Waddell & Reed Takes Another Step toward Broad Technology Initiatives

Industry veteran named CTO to lead tech strategies across the organization

Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc. WDR has appointed Joan J. Albeck as Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer to lead the development and implementation of the firm's technology strategies, while enhancing information technology infrastructure and resources in support of several key corporate initiatives.

Waddell & Reed last year unveiled broad strategic initiatives that entail technological innovation or upgrades tied to its core asset management, investment product sales, and broker-dealer businesses. Areas of focus include data analysis and management, business processing, customer relationship management (CRM), and business productivity. Albeck, through her leadership of the firm's Enterprise Technology Services organization, will have a key role in the fulfillment of many of these initiatives.

Albeck, a 25-year tech and financial industry veteran, comes to Waddell & Reed from Scottrade, Inc. (now TD Ameritrade), where she spent 13 years, most recently as Chief Technology Officer responsible for IT infrastructure and security operations initiatives.

"Joan brings direct experience managing large technology organizations, leading technology change and transformation efforts, while building strategic partnerships with business colleagues," said Philip J. Sanders, CEO of Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc. "We're pleased to have her on board as we address several strategic initiatives targeted to keep us competitive and innovative across all aspects of our business."

She reports to Brent K. Bloss, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc.

"Joan's knowledge and enthusiasm aligns closely with our deep appreciation for the importance and impact technology has on the future success of our company," said Bloss. "Her work in areas including infrastructure, data security and agile software development will give her key insight as we continue to progress against our strategic goals."

Albeck joined Scottrade in 2005 as managing director, IT infrastructure, before being named Chief Technology officer in 2008. She also has previous experience at UniGroup, Inc. and GenAmerica Financial Services. She has a Master's Degree in Computer Resources and Information Management, a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and has been recognized multiple times by CIO Magazine and ComputerWorld for her leadership.

About the Company

Through its subsidiaries, Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc. has provided investment management and financial planning services to clients throughout the United States since 1937. Today, we distribute our investment products through the unaffiliated channel (encompassing broker/dealer, retirement, and registered investment advisors), our broker-dealer channel (through independent financial advisors), and our Institutional channel (including defined benefit plans, pension plans, endowments and subadvisory relationships). For more information, visit ir.waddell.com.

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