NORCROSS, GA-Wells Real Estate Funds has tapped Robert Kennedy as its new president and COO. In a statement, the REIT explains that Kennedy’s responsibilities will include executing corporate strategy and managing daily business operations at the company. The new president, who has been with Wells since 2009, brings over 20 years of experience in the investment banking industry to the role.

Kennedy served most recently as senior vice president, product development and special projects at Wells. Of the new appointment, CEO Leo Wells says Kennedy "brings a wealth of management and product development expertise that will be invaluable to Wells Real Estate Funds as we continue to grow and diversify our business."

Company founder Wells will stay in his position as CEO and will maintain his roles as chairman of Wells REIT II, chairman and president of Wells Core RET and president of Wells Timberland REIT.