CFA Institute Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

CFA Institute has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and technology.

Driven by a commitment to advancing the investment management profession, CFA Institute empowers professionals globally through rigorous education and ethical standards, fostering trust and integrity in financial markets.

Leadership Roles at CFA Institute

  • Chief Executive Officer - Ryann Elijah
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Jeffrey Diermeier
  • Deputy Chief Executive Officer - Abdullahi Iid
  • Chief Financial Officer - Steven Hendry
  • President Council Representative - US Southeast Region - Guillermo Rodríguez
  • President, CFA Society of Nevada - John Shanklin
  • Chief of Staff - Anne O'Brien
  • Corporate Advisory Services Chief of Staff - David Schmidle
  • Chief Information Officer & Managing Director, Technology & Ai Solutions, Cfa Institute - Eliot Pikoulis
  • Chief People Officer - Andrew Rome
  • Ryann Elijah - Chief Executive Officer

    Ryann Elijah, the Chief Executive Officer at CFA Institute, directs the organization's overarching strategy and global operations. This leadership position involves setting the vision for finance education and professional development for investment professionals worldwide. Elijah ensures alignment with the mission to promote high standards of ethics, education, and excellence across the investment industry. The Chief Executive Officer oversees the execution of programs designed to empower professionals and ultimately benefit society through improved investment practices. Ryann Elijah drives the strategic initiatives that position CFA Institute as a leading authority in global finance education, impacting career advancement for countless individuals and enhancing market integrity.

    Jeffrey Diermeier - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jeffrey Diermeier, the President & Chief Executive Officer at CFA Institute, spearheads the global strategic direction and operational execution of the organization. This critical role involves championing the mission to advance the investment management profession and uphold the highest ethical standards. Diermeier oversees the development and delivery of core educational programs, including the CFA Program and specialized certificates, ensuring their relevance and impact for finance professionals. The President & Chief Executive Officer works to foster a global community of investment professionals dedicated to excellence and integrity. Jeffrey Diermeier's leadership ensures CFA Institute effectively serves its intended clients, including finance professionals, universities, and students, by providing essential career advancement tools and promoting trust in financial markets worldwide.

    Abdullahi Iid - Deputy Chief Executive Officer

    Abdullahi Iid, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at CFA Institute, supports the President & Chief Executive Officer in executing the organization's global strategy and operational objectives. This role involves managing key initiatives that advance the investment management profession and uphold ethical standards. Iid contributes to the oversight of educational programs and member services, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of finance professionals. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer plays a crucial part in fostering global collaboration and promoting excellence within the investment industry. Abdullahi Iid's leadership ensures the effective implementation of programs designed to empower professionals and enhance market integrity, supporting the broader mission of CFA Institute.

    Steven Hendry - Chief Financial Officer

    Steven Hendry, the Chief Financial Officer at CFA Institute, directs all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for the global organization. This executive function involves managing budgets, financial reporting, and investment strategies to ensure the long-term sustainability of CFA Institute's mission. Hendry oversees the allocation of resources to support educational programs and technological advancements, driving efficiency and fiscal responsibility. The Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with financial regulations and best practices across all global activities. Steven Hendry's financial acumen is critical in supporting the organization's growth and its commitment to providing high-quality finance education and promoting ethical standards within the investment industry worldwide.
    Steven Hendry

    Guillermo Rodríguez - President Council Representative - US Southeast Region

    Guillermo Rodríguez, the President Council Representative - US Southeast Region at CFA Institute, represents the interests of the region's CFA Societies and their members. This leadership position involves fostering collaboration and communication among societies within the US Southeast. Rodríguez works to ensure regional alignment with CFA Institute's global mission of advancing the investment management profession and upholding ethical standards. The President Council Representative - US Southeast Region facilitates the exchange of best practices and supports the development of local initiatives that benefit investment professionals. Guillermo Rodríguez's engagement strengthens the network of CFA Societies, promoting education and ethical conduct across the region.

    John Shanklin - President, CFA Society of Nevada

    John Shanklin, the President, CFA Society of Nevada, leads the local society's operations and strategic initiatives within the state. This role involves promoting the CFA Institute's mission of advancing the investment management profession and upholding ethical standards among members in Nevada. Shanklin oversees programs and events designed to foster professional development and networking opportunities for local finance professionals. The President, CFA Society of Nevada serves as a key liaison between the local society and the global organization, ensuring alignment with overarching goals. John Shanklin's leadership contributes to the growth and engagement of CFA charterholders and candidates in the region, reinforcing CFA Institute's commitment to excellence.

    Anne O'Brien - Chief of Staff

    Anne O'Brien, the Chief of Staff at CFA Institute, provides strategic support and operational coordination across key executive functions. This role involves facilitating communication and driving initiatives that align with the organization's mission to advance the investment management profession. O'Brien works closely with leadership to ensure efficient execution of strategic priorities and operational improvements. The Chief of Staff manages special projects and ensures seamless collaboration among departments, enhancing overall organizational effectiveness. Anne O'Brien's contributions are vital in streamlining operations and supporting the delivery of high-quality finance education and ethical standards to investment professionals globally.

    David Schmidle - Corporate Advisory Services Chief of Staff

    David Schmidle, the Corporate Advisory Services Chief of Staff at CFA Institute, leads strategic initiatives and operational enhancements within the advisory services division. This position focuses on developing and implementing programs that support investment professionals and institutions globally. Schmidle oversees the coordination of advisory services, ensuring alignment with the organization's core mission of promoting ethical standards and professional excellence. The Corporate Advisory Services Chief of Staff works to expand the reach and impact of advisory offerings, fostering stronger relationships with industry partners. David Schmidle's leadership drives the strategic growth and operational efficiency of corporate advisory services, reinforcing CFA Institute's commitment to advancing the investment management profession.

    Eliot Pikoulis - Chief Information Officer & Managing Director, Technology & Ai Solutions, Cfa Institute

    Eliot Pikoulis, the Chief Information Officer & Managing Director, Technology & Ai Solutions, Cfa Institute, directs the organization's technology strategy and innovation in AI solutions. This executive function involves overseeing the development and implementation of robust IT infrastructure and cutting-edge technological advancements to support global operations and educational delivery. Pikoulis ensures that technology solutions enhance user experience and operational efficiency for investment professionals and stakeholders. The Chief Information Officer & Managing Director, Technology & Ai Solutions, Cfa Institute champions the integration of AI to drive new learning modalities and operational improvements. Eliot Pikoulis's leadership in technology and AI is crucial for CFA Institute's mission to provide advanced finance education and uphold industry standards.
    Eliot Pikoulis

    Andrew Rome - Chief People Officer

    Andrew Rome, the Chief People Officer at CFA Institute, leads human capital strategy and organizational development initiatives. This critical role focuses on cultivating a high-performing and inclusive work environment that supports the organization's global mission. Rome oversees talent acquisition, employee engagement, and professional development programs for CFA Institute staff worldwide. The Chief People Officer ensures that people strategies align with the organization's commitment to ethical standards and excellence in finance education. Andrew Rome's leadership in human resources is instrumental in attracting and retaining top talent, fostering a culture of innovation, and driving the overall success of CFA Institute in serving investment professionals globally.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding CFA Institute Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads CFA Institute?
    CFA Institute is led by Ryann Elijah (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Jeffrey Diermeier (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Abdullahi Iid (Deputy Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of CFA Institute’s executive team?
    The executive team of CFA Institute includes leaders such as Ryann Elijah (Chief Executive Officer), Jeffrey Diermeier (President & Chief Executive Officer), Abdullahi Iid (Deputy Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does CFA Institute have?
    CFA Institute has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in CFA Institute’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of CFA Institute includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President Council Representative - US Southeast Region.