UBS Securities Canada Inc. has announced a shuffle in its executive ranks.

In January 2008, Jim Estey will relinquish his role as CEO to become the firm’s chairman. Rick Meslin is to become the head of Canadian equities.

Meslin will report to Raul Esquivel who will be expanding his role from head of U.S. equities to head of equities Americas, and will have responsibility for its Canadian business.

“Raul has been crucial in the effort to streamline management structure and deliver an integrated product and service platform in the U.S., and we are confident that he will continue to leverage our capabilities throughout the Americas,” the firm says.

Meslin has been with UBS for eight years and has an extensive background in institutional sales. “We are confident that Rick will provide the leadership needed to continue to grow the business, and will work closely with U.S. partners to identify cross-regional synergies,” it adds.