The Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards has formally launched the search for its next chief executive, marking the beginning of a major leadership transition for the organization. The Board has engaged executive search firm Spencer Stuart to spearhead the process, which aims to identify a successor well ahead of current CEO Kevin Keller's retirement in April 2026.

The Board's transition plan includes a dedicated CEO search committee, chaired by 2025 chair-elect Terri Kallsen. According to Investment News, the committee has emphasized its commitment to a transparent and inclusive search process. Board Chair Liz Miller echoed that sentiment, adding that the Board of Directors is approaching the leadership transition with a "clear plan" and strong support from the financial planning community.

During Keller's tenure, the CFP Board also reported significant growth in pro bono service. In 2023, advisors volunteered nearly 390,000 hours, representing an 18 percent increase from the prior year.

As the search moves forward, the Board plans to conduct broad outreach across the financial services and nonprofit sectors to attract a diverse slate of highly qualified candidates. The goal is to ensure continuity in the Board's mission to expand access to competent and ethical financial planning for all Americans.

Reflecting on his time as CEO, Keller called it "the privilege of my career," expressing pride in the collaborative work of the Board, staff, and thousands of volunteers. "We at CFP Board envision a future where every American has access to competent and ethical financial planning," he told Investment News.

The leadership transition marks a pivotal moment for the CFP Board as it prepares to build on Keller's legacy and chart a course for the future.

Financial Advisor Transitions consults advisors nationwide to explore employment transition options and to preserve and protect their practice in any transition that they make.