Western Asset Mortgage Capital Corporation (WMC) announced that Gavin James will retire from his position as chief executive officer and a Director of WMC, effective June 1, 2016. The board of directors of WMC has appointed Jennifer Murphy to serve as chief executive officer upon James' departure and expects to nominate her to become a member of the board in connection with the publication of WMC's 2016 proxy statement. Murphy has 30 years of experience in the investment management industry.

Prior to joining Western Asset in 2015, she served as chief administrative officer at Legg Mason Inc. She also has held a number of senior positions at its equity investment affiliate, Legg Mason Capital Management, including chief executive officer and president.