Boston, MA — May 22, 2026 — Nicsa announced the appointment of Melissa Cross, Head of SMA Product at Allspring Global Investments, and Brian Reilly, Global Head of SMAs, Models, and Closed End Funds at Manulife John Hancock Investments, as co-chairs of the Nicsa SMA and Model Portfolio Committee.
The committee serves as a collaborative forum for asset and wealth management industry professionals engaged in managed accounts, separately managed accounts (SMAs), and model portfolios. Through ongoing dialogue and industry engagement, the committee shares best practices, explores operational and strategic trends, and provides perspectives on the evolving managed accounts landscape across asset managers, platforms, and service providers.
Under Cross and Reilly’s leadership, the committee will continue to focus on key industry priorities including innovation in SMA and model portfolio offerings, operational efficiency, distribution trends, technology integration, advisor adoption, and the evolving needs of clients and intermediaries.
“As an active member of the SMA and Model Portfolio Committee since its inception in 2019, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with an exceptional group of peers dedicated to advancing the evolution of our industry,” said Melissa Cross. “I’m truly honored to step into a leadership role at such a pivotal time, where we have a unique opportunity to further unite ideas, elevate best practices, and help shape the continued growth and innovation of the SMA and model portfolio landscape.”
“Nicsa plays a critical role in bringing together diverse perspectives across the industry, and I’m excited to help lead this effort within the SMA and model portfolio space,” said Brian Reilly. “As the landscape continues to evolve, there is an opportunity to drive even greater alignment across asset managers, platforms, and service providers. I look forward to working with the committee to help ensure that this alignment creates meaningful benefits for advisors and their clients.”
The Nicsa SMA and Model Portfolio Committee brings together leaders from across the managed accounts ecosystem to address emerging industry developments, foster collaboration, and support innovation that benefits firms, financial advisors, and investors alike. Sarah Walter, Nicsa’s Head of Asset and Wealth Management Relationships and liaison to the committee, said, “We are honored to collaborate with such accomplished leaders whose expertise and vision continue to shape the future of the industry. We are excited to welcome Melissa and Brian to the role and look forward to the meaningful contributions and fresh perspectives they will bring to the committee and the broader community.”
For information about how to get involved in Nicsa’s Committees, reach out to i[email protected].
About Nicsa
Nicsa is a leading not-for-profit trade association connecting all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, implement, and advance leading practices. Learn more at www.nicsa.org.
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