Crypto Council for Innovation Appoints Ji Hun Kim as CEO After Sheila Warren Departure

The Crypto Council for Innovation (CCI) has named Ji Hun Kim as its permanent chief executive officer, following his interim tenure since December 2024. Kim, a legal and policy expert with prior roles at Gemini and Kraken, brings extensive experience in navigating the regulatory and operational challenges of the cryptocurrency sector. His appointment marks a strategic leadership shift for the Washington, D.C.-based advocacy group, which seeks to bridge technological innovation with public policy frameworks. Kim succeeds Sheila Warren, who served as CEO for three years before departing in early 2024, just before the Trump administration took office [1].

Kim’s career spans over three years at Gemini and nearly a year at Kraken, where he focused on legal and policy matters. His transition to the CCI reflects a broader industry trend of leveraging institutional expertise to shape regulatory dialogue. The CCI, which counts major financial and technology firms among its members, has actively engaged with U.S. lawmakers on issues such as stablecoin regulation, central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), and market structure. Kim emphasized the “pivotal moment” for the crypto industry, stating his goal to build an organization grounded in “facts, trust, and respect” while addressing global policy challenges [1].

The timing of Kim’s appointment aligns with significant legislative developments in the U.S. The House of Representatives recently passed three crypto-related bills, including the GENIUS Act on stablecoins, which President Trump signed into law on July 18. The Senate is expected to deliberate on remaining legislation related to CBDCs and market structure following its August recess, with a September deadline set for the latter bill. These developments underscore the urgency for advocacy groups like the CCI to influence policy outcomes amid heightened regulatory scrutiny [1].

Kim’s leadership will face immediate challenges, including the ongoing debate over stablecoin oversight and anti-money laundering measures. The CCI’s role in amplifying industry priorities on Capitol Hill and in international forums is critical as lawmakers balance innovation with compliance. Kim’s experience in crisis management—such as navigating regulatory uncertainties during his tenure at Kraken—positions him to address these challenges. The organization has also expanded its membership, welcoming firms like SoFi, signaling growing institutional interest in crypto policy advocacy [2].

The transition follows Warren’s tenure, during which the CCI solidified its position as a key intermediary between the crypto industry and regulators. Warren’s departure left a leadership vacuum at a time when the sector faces intensifying scrutiny. Kim’s appointment reflects a strategic emphasis on operational expertise to address regulatory and market complexities. His remarks highlight the need for “serious, informed engagement” as the industry evolves, aligning with the CCI’s mission to foster collaboration between technology and policy [1].

The CCI’s advocacy efforts are set against a backdrop of rapid regulatory shifts. The recent closure of the U.S. Department of Justice’s investigation into Kraken co-founder Jesse Powell exemplifies the sector’s dynamic environment. While such developments may reduce immediate legal risks for firms, they also highlight the importance of proactive engagement with policymakers to ensure a balanced regulatory framework. Kim’s leadership will be pivotal in navigating these uncertainties while advancing the CCI’s objectives [2].

Sources:

[1] Crypto Council for Innovation Names Ji Hun Kim as CEO After Sheila Warren Departure https://cryptonews.com/news/crypto-council-for-innovation-names-ji-hun-kim-as-ceo-after-sheila-warren-departure/

[2] CCI Appoints Ji Hun Kim Chief Executive Officer, Adds SoFi as Member https://cryptoforinnovation.org/ccl-appoints-ji-hun-kim-chief-executive-officer-adds-sofi-as-member/

[3] Ex-Gemini, Kraken Exec Appointed as CEO of Crypto Advocacy Group https://mx.advfn.com/bolsa-de-valores/COIN/BTCUSD/crypto-news/96495445/ex-gemini-kraken-exec-appointed-as-ceo-of-crypto