Scottish Widows Investment Partnership (Swip) has appointed John Griffith from Global Asset Management in New York to head its North American business.

Prior to joining Global Asset Management in 1999, Griffith was an investment director with Swip developing the firm's European equity business in the US. On his return to Swip, Griffith will be responsible for expanding its investment business in North America as well as contributing to its overall strategic development. Griffith will continue to be based in New York, reporting to Bill Main, chief executive.