Sheila Warren Steps Down As CEO Of Crypto Council For Innovation

Sheila Warren, the inaugural CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation (CCI), has announced her resignation from the role, effective January 2025.

Warren made the announcement on 14 December 2024 through X citing her desire to focus on driving innovation in the crypto space.

Ji Kim, currently serving as CCI’s Chief Legal Officer, will assume the position of acting CEO.

CRYPTO COUNCIL FOR INNOVATION CEO ANNOUNCES RESIGNATION AFTER THREE YEARS

Sheila Warren, CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation, has announced her resignation, effective January.

Under her leadership, CCI solidified its role as a key advocate for the digital asset industry,… pic.twitter.com/Q4LgDYMrps

— IBC Group Official (@ibcgroupio) December 14, 2024

Warren reflected upon events such as the collapse of FTX and the regulatory scrutiny under the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) Chair, Gary Gensler.

“When I took on the role as CCI’s first CEO three years ago, it was a different era—before the FTX debacle and just as Gary Gensler’s attacks on the industry were beginning to unfold,” she said.

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Advocating Through Turbulent Times, CCI’s Next Chapter With Ji Kim 

Warren expressed pride in the organization’s achievements during her tenure, despite operating in a challenging environment.

“Policymakers around the world have consistently told me that CCI is the reason they’ve remained open-minded about crypto, even amidst a bear market, crises, and negative press about the industry,” she said.

A key outcome under her leadership was CCI’s active role in discussions on Capitol Hill. In July 2024, Warren was a part of a roundtable that included the US Congress members, a Biden administration advisor, and crypto executives to discuss making crypto a nonpartisan issue. The meeting was described by Warren as “a productive step forward.”

Meanwhile, as Warren departs, Ji Kim will take charge as the acting CEO. Warren expressed confidence in Kim’s ability to continue CCI’s mission and build upon its legacy.

“I cannot think of a better person to build on this strong foundation he has helped create,” Warren wrote.

Kim’s leadership comes at a time when CCI is looking to expand its influence to Asia, Europe and Africa.

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Warren ‘s Departure Coincides With Shift In Regulatory Climate 

Warren’s departure has coincided with a potential shift in the regulatory climate as the Trump administration takes office in January 2025.

Crypto executives have expressed confidence about the incoming Trump administration’s potential to support decentralized finance (DeFi) and broader crypto adoption.

Marcin Kaźmierczak, co-founder of RedStone, remarked that the Trump administration could “catalyze an influx of innovation and investment” in DeFi, transforming it from a niche market to the mainstream.

Adding to the anticipation is the upcoming departure of SEC Chair Gary Gensler, known for his strict regulatory stance on crypto.

Meanwhile, Trump has nominated Paul Atkins, a pro-crypto former SEC Commissioner, to succeed Gensler. Atkins’ nomination has reportedly fueled hopes for a more favorable regulatory environment for digital assets. 

Explore: 18 States Sue Biden Administration Over SEC Crypto Actions 

Even though Warren’s tenure as the CEO has come to an end, she will remain involved with CCI as Senior Global Policy Officer to provide support during the transition. “This isn’t goodbye—it’s just the beginning of a new adventure,” Warren said.

Prior to joining the CCI, Warren had founded the World Economic Forum’s blockchain and digital assets team and was recognized as one of the most powerful women in Washington DC in 2023.

“I am confident that CCI will achieve a smart regulatory outcome in Washington, just as we have successfully done in nearly every other market where we operate,” she said.

Related: Elon Musk, Ripple Legal Chief, Vivek Ramaswamy Challenge SEC’s Regulatory Approach 

Disclaimer

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