Marsh, who joined the company on March 1, 2004, brings more than 30 years of experience-more than 16 years in Asia and Japan-in the global financial services arena and has held several leadership positions focusing on the development of the Asia Pacific marketplace. He will be responsible for providing the overall strategy, leadership and direction essential for Western Union's continued expansion in the Asia Pacific region including China.

"We have a strong commitment to grow our business in developing markets," said Christina Gold, president, Western Union Financial Services, Inc. "Ian's deep understanding of the Asia Pacific marketplace coupled with his expertise with consumer financial services will make him a valued addition to our global team."

Marsh held various positions during a 30-year career with American Express, including vice president, Consumer Financial Services in Hong Kong and Korea; regional vice president, Business Partners in Japan, Asia and Australia; senior vice president, Card Travel and Insurance Operations in Hong Kong, the People's Republic of China, Taiwan, and the Philippines, and president and CEO of the company in Japan. Prior to joining First Data, Marsh served as president for Reader's Digest Europe with executive responsibility spanning 18 European markets.

Marsh takes over responsibilities for the Asia Pacific region from Hikmet Ersek, senior vice president for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), who was overseeing the Asia Pacific region on an interim basis. Ersek will continue in his capacity focusing on the EMEA region, and also will assume responsibility for the South Asia region, including India.