As CEO of the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (CFP) Board, Kevin Keller says associations have tremendous power to bring people together and to achieve things they couldn't do on their own.
“That’s the whole idea,” he admits. “The kinds of achievements we’ve had of bringing folks together helped shape industries and professions. They strengthened communities and, in our case, we feel like we're really improving the lives of millions of people. It's that collective action.”
Based in Washington, D.C., Keller believes he has the best job on K Street, Washington, DC's renowned hb of lobbyists and associations, because “CFP professionals change people's lives,” he said.
“We at CFP Board envision a future where every American has access to competent and ethical financial planning. It's that mission and that vision that motivates me and the 120-plus staff here at CFP Board on an ongoing basis.”
“We live in Washington. I could be representing any number of different special interests, but this is one that's special to me,” he added.
Indeed, it’s that mission and vision that also has Keller being recognized as an InvestmentNews Awards 2024 Excellence Awardee, with the winners announced on June 20 at 583 Park Avenue, New York City in a glitzy, red carpet ceremony. Click here to register to attend.
Keller offers some advice for up-and-coming financial planners. “Chase what you want.”
“Find a career that's rewarding and find that work-life balance. That could be a career in financial planning for many people,” he said.
Looking to refine your strategy for investing in stocks in the US market? Discover expert insights, key trends, and risk management techniques to maximize your returns
The RIA led by Merrill Lynch veteran John Thiel is helping its advisors take part in the growing trend toward fee-based annuities.
Driven by robust transaction activity amid market turbulence and increased focus on billion-dollar plus targets, Echelon Partners expects another all-time high in 2025.
The looming threat of federal funding cuts to state and local governments has lawmakers weighing a levy that was phased out in 1981.
The fintech firms' new tools and integrations address pain points in overseeing investment lineups, account monitoring, and more.
RIAs face rising regulatory pressure in 2025. Forward-looking firms are responding with embedded technology, not more paperwork.
As inheritances are set to reshape client portfolios and next-gen heirs demand digital-first experiences, firms are retooling their wealth tech stacks and succession models in real time.