In his new role at Direct Edge, Mr. Christian will oversee all sales activity-both the servicing of existing accounts and new customer acquisition. Mr. Christian worked closely with both Mr. Harkins and Direct Edge CEO William O'Brien while all were senior leaders at NASDAQ.

Mr. Harkins said, "Bryan is a respected veteran whose diligent and methodical approach to building relationships is a key differentiator in a competitive marketplace. He has a proven track record executing successful sales initiatives in the exchange and trading worlds. His grasp of the crucial elements needed to successfully manage an elite sales team is second to none and he will undoubtedly prove to be invaluable to Direct Edge as we continue to grow our business. We are excited to have Bryan on our team."

"Direct Edge came a long way in a short time through the nimble execution of a smart business plan-that's what attracted me to the exchange," said Mr. Christian. "Having been involved in the exchange and trading arena for quite some time, I am well aware of Direct Edge's growth and the innovative suite of products and services the firm offers to the brokerage community. I am eager to roll up my sleeves and bring what I have learned throughout my career to bear on behalf of Direct Edge and its customers."

Prior to Direct Edge, Mr. Christian most recently served as Managing Director of Sales at NASDAQ Stock Exchange. Before joining NASDAQ in 2005, Mr. Christian was the Global Connectivity Manager at Bloomberg Tradebook for nearly four years where he oversaw a team of 25 to develop and sell connectivity solutions to the trading community. Mr. Christian began his career in London as a Business Analyst at Merrill Lynch International in 1995 before joining software development firm Felspar Limited in 2000. Mr. Christian earned a B.S. in Business Administration at Marist College.