CFA UK (CFA Society United Kingdom) today (17 Sept) said that its chief executive, Will Goodhart, will be stepping down in early 2025 with the board now commencing a search for his successor.

Hilary Eastman, CFA, chair of CFA UK’s board of directors said: “Will has been instrumental in the growth and success of our society, serving for nearly two decades. As he steps down, he leaves the legacy of an organisation transformed to shape and support the future of investment management. We cannot thank him enough for all that he has done and wish him the very best for the future.”

Under Goodhart’s leadership, membership of CFA UK has doubled to 12,000 members, its revenues have increased fourfold and its reserves by more than six times, the statement said. In recent years, the society has professionalised its operations, volunteer structure and governance to build stronger networks across the sector.

In 2019 it pioneered the first Certificate in ESG Investing, now run globally by the CFA Institute, paving the way for a series of certificates in sustainable investing. In 2023, Goodhart oversaw the development of a new vision and purpose for the organisation – We Grow Talent.

Goodhart (pictured) said: “It has been a huge privilege and tremendous fun to support thousands of people on their investment journey, helping them to shape their careers and ensuring that they are technically and ethically competent to help manage other people’s money.

"I am immensely grateful to the volunteers and the team at CFA UK and CFA Institute for all that we have done together. There’s lots of exciting work ahead for us and a growing need for what we offer. I look forward to being involved in that work until my departure and then supporting and celebrating the Institute and Society’s work as a member.”

The board of directors of CFA UK will now work with Sapphire Partners on the search for a new chief executive to lead CFA UK in helping investment professionals to build their capabilities, connections and careers.

Further details about the role and the recruitment process will be shared with members later this month.