CFA Institute Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to ethical standards, CFA Institute empowers investment professionals globally through rigorous education and professional development, fostering trust and integrity in the financial markets for societal benefit.

Leadership Roles at CFA Institute

  • Chief Executive Officer - Mae Conrad
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Jeffrey Diermeier
  • Deputy Chief Executive Officer - Abdullahi Iid
  • Chief Financial Officer - Steven Hendry
  • Chief of Staff - Anne O'Brien
  • Chief Information Officer - Martin Colburn
  • 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
  • Managing Director, General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer - Sheri Littlefield
  • Mae Conrad - Chief Executive Officer

    Mae Conrad, the Chief Executive Officer at CFA Institute, directs the organization's overarching strategy and global operations. Conrad spearheads initiatives to advance the investment management profession, ensuring alignment with the institute's mission of promoting high standards of ethics, education, and excellence. This leadership role involves cultivating key stakeholder relationships and driving innovation in educational programs and professional development offerings. Conrad's strategic vision guides the institute's efforts to empower finance professionals worldwide, ultimately contributing to a more trustworthy and effective global financial system. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on enhancing the value proposition for members and stakeholders, ensuring the institute's continued relevance and impact in a dynamic industry. Mae Conrad's executive oversight ensures the consistent delivery of high-quality programs and services that support career advancement for investment professionals.

    Jeffrey Diermeier - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jeffrey Diermeier, the President & Chief Executive Officer at CFA Institute, leads the global strategic direction and operational execution of the organization. Diermeier champions the institute's commitment to ethical conduct and professional development within the investment management industry. This executive position involves fostering global partnerships and driving initiatives that enhance the value and recognition of the CFA designation. The President & Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of the institute's mission to serve investment professionals and advance the industry's standards. Jeffrey Diermeier's leadership ensures the institute remains at the forefront of finance education, promoting integrity and excellence worldwide. The President & Chief Executive Officer's strategic oversight is critical for navigating market complexities and expanding the institute's reach and impact across diverse professional communities.

    Abdullahi Iid - Deputy Chief Executive Officer

    Abdullahi Iid, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at CFA Institute, supports the Chief Executive Officer in executing the organization's strategic objectives and global initiatives. Iid plays a crucial role in operational oversight, ensuring the efficient delivery of educational programs and member services across all regions. This leadership function involves collaborating with various departments to drive operational excellence and enhance the institute's impact on investment professionals. Abdullahi Iid's focus includes optimizing internal processes and fostering a culture of continuous improvement to meet the evolving needs of the finance industry. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer's contributions are vital to maintaining the institute's high standards and expanding its reach. Abdullahi Iid works to strengthen the institute's global presence and ensure its programs effectively empower finance professionals worldwide.

    Steven Hendry - Chief Financial Officer

    Steven Hendry, the Chief Financial Officer at CFA Institute, directs the organization's financial strategy, planning, and management. Hendry oversees all fiscal operations, including budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation, ensuring the institute's financial health and sustainability. This executive role is critical for supporting the institute's global mission and educational programs through sound financial stewardship. Steven Hendry's responsibilities encompass managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations across all operational regions. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is essential for guiding strategic decisions and maintaining the institute's commitment to ethical practices. Steven Hendry ensures that financial resources are effectively deployed to advance the institute's goals of promoting excellence in the investment management profession.
    Steven Hendry

    Anne O'Brien - Chief of Staff

    Anne O'Brien, the Chief of Staff at CFA Institute, provides strategic support and operational coordination to the executive leadership team. O'Brien manages key initiatives, facilitates cross-departmental collaboration, and ensures the efficient execution of organizational priorities. This role involves streamlining communication and operations to enhance the effectiveness of the institute's global mission. Anne O'Brien's responsibilities include overseeing special projects, managing executive communications, and driving strategic planning processes. The Chief of Staff's contribution is vital for aligning leadership efforts and ensuring the smooth functioning of the organization. Anne O'Brien works to optimize the impact of the executive team, supporting the institute's commitment to advancing ethical standards and professional development in the investment industry.

    Martin Colburn - Chief Information Officer

    Martin Colburn, the Chief Information Officer at CFA Institute, leads the organization's technology strategy and digital transformation efforts. Colburn oversees the development and implementation of IT infrastructure, systems, and solutions that support the institute's global operations and educational platforms. This executive position is crucial for enhancing member experience and operational efficiency through innovative technology. Martin Colburn's responsibilities include managing cybersecurity, data governance, and the integration of emerging technologies to advance the institute's mission. The Chief Information Officer's strategic guidance ensures that technology investments align with the organization's goals of promoting ethical standards and professional development. Martin Colburn drives the technological advancements necessary to empower investment professionals worldwide.
    Martin Colburn

    David Schmidle - Corporate Advisory Services Chief of Staff

    David Schmidle, the Corporate Advisory Services Chief of Staff at CFA Institute, directs strategic operations and program development within the advisory services division. Schmidle enhances the delivery of specialized financial education and professional development programs tailored to corporate clients. This leadership role involves fostering key relationships with industry partners and ensuring the alignment of advisory services with the institute's broader mission. David Schmidle's focus includes optimizing service offerings and expanding the reach of corporate solutions globally. The Corporate Advisory Services Chief of Staff's efforts are instrumental in supporting the institute's commitment to ethical practices and career advancement for investment professionals. David Schmidle drives the strategic initiatives that strengthen the institute's impact on the global financial community.

    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 at CFA Institute, spearheads the integration of advanced technology and artificial intelligence solutions across the organization. Pikoulis drives innovation in IT infrastructure and digital platforms to enhance educational delivery and operational effectiveness. This dual executive role focuses on leveraging AI to create new opportunities for investment professionals and improve member engagement. Eliot Pikoulis's responsibilities include guiding the development of cutting-edge technological capabilities and ensuring their strategic alignment with the institute's mission. The Chief Information Officer & Managing Director, Technology & Ai Solutions, Cfa Institute's leadership is critical for positioning the institute at the forefront of technological advancement in finance education. Eliot Pikoulis ensures the institute harnesses technology to empower professionals and uphold ethical standards globally.
    Eliot Pikoulis

    Andrew Rome - Chief People Officer

    Andrew Rome, the Chief People Officer at CFA Institute, leads the human resources strategy and talent management initiatives for the global organization. Rome oversees all aspects of employee experience, organizational development, and workforce planning to support the institute's mission. This executive role is vital for cultivating a high-performing culture that attracts, develops, and retains top talent across diverse regions. Andrew Rome's responsibilities include implementing robust HR policies, fostering employee engagement, and ensuring compliance with labor laws worldwide. The Chief People Officer's strategic direction is essential for aligning the workforce with the institute's commitment to ethical standards and professional excellence. Andrew Rome drives the people-centric strategies that empower the institute's staff to effectively serve investment professionals globally.
    Sheri Littlefield, the Managing Director, General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer at CFA Institute, provides comprehensive legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for the global organization. Littlefield ensures compliance with international laws and regulations, manages risk, and advises on corporate governance matters. This executive position is critical for safeguarding the institute's interests and upholding its commitment to ethical standards in all operations. Sheri Littlefield's responsibilities include managing litigation, intellectual property, and contractual agreements across various jurisdictions. The Managing Director, General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer's expertise is essential for navigating complex legal landscapes and supporting the institute's strategic objectives. Sheri Littlefield's leadership ensures the institute operates with integrity and adheres to the highest legal and ethical principles worldwide.
    Sheri Littlefield

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding CFA Institute Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads CFA Institute?
    CFA Institute is led by Mae Conrad (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 Mae Conrad (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, Chief of Staff.