Crypto Council for Innovation Appoints Ji Hun Kim as Permanent CEO Amid Heightened Regulatory Scrutiny

Ji Hun Kim, a legal professional with prior experience at cryptocurrency exchanges Gemini and Kraken, has been appointed as the permanent CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation (CCI), a prominent crypto advocacy group. The appointment, confirmed in July 2025, follows the departure of former CEO Sheila Warren [1]. Kim had served as acting CEO since December 2024, during a period of heightened regulatory scrutiny in the U.S. and globally [2]. The CCI board emphasized Kim’s legal expertise and industry background as critical assets for navigating the evolving digital asset policy landscape [3].

Kim’s career includes roles at Gemini, where he contributed to regulatory compliance strategies, and Kraken, where he helped shape corporate governance frameworks. His transition to the CCI underscores a shift toward leveraging legal and operational experience to advocate for crypto-friendly policies. The timing of his appointment aligns with ongoing debates over U.S. regulatory approaches to cryptocurrencies, including discussions around the SEC’s enforcement actions and the potential for federal licensing frameworks [1].

The CCI, which represents major players in the crypto ecosystem, has positioned Kim’s leadership as a strategic move to strengthen engagement with policymakers. His prior roles at exchanges provide firsthand insight into the challenges faced by crypto firms, particularly in balancing innovation with compliance. The board highlighted that his appointment occurs at a “pivotal moment” for global digital asset policy, with the U.S. regulatory environment remaining a key focus area [3].

Kim’s confirmation as permanent CEO marks a transition from an interim to a formal leadership role. During his acting tenure, he oversaw initiatives to streamline industry collaboration with regulators, including efforts to clarify jurisdictional boundaries for crypto assets. The CCI has not disclosed specific policy priorities under Kim’s leadership but has reiterated its commitment to advocating for innovation while addressing concerns about financial integrity and consumer protection [2].

The appointment has been viewed as a signal of continuity and stability for the CCI. Warren, the previous CEO, stepped down after nearly three years, during which the group expanded its membership to include firms like SoFi [3]. Kim’s background in both corporate law and exchange operations is expected to reinforce the CCI’s efforts to bridge the gap between industry stakeholders and regulators, particularly as legislative proposals in Congress continue to evolve.

Sources indicate that Kim’s leadership will focus on maintaining the CCI’s role as a neutral convener of industry voices. This includes amplifying discussions on topics such as stablecoin regulation, cross-border payment frameworks, and the role of decentralized finance (DeFi) in broader financial systems. The board has also emphasized the importance of international cooperation, given the fragmented nature of global crypto regulations [1].

Kim’s appointment reflects broader trends in the crypto sector, where legal and regulatory expertise is increasingly valued. As governments grapple with how to integrate digital assets into existing financial systems, advocacy groups like the CCI are under pressure to demonstrate both innovation and accountability. The CCI’s membership, which includes major exchanges and infrastructure providers, positions it as a key player in shaping policy outcomes.

The move has been met with cautious optimism within the industry. Critics have noted that the CCI’s influence depends on its ability to balance advocacy with transparency, particularly in light of past controversies involving member firms. However, supporters argue that Kim’s experience in navigating regulatory challenges at Gemini and Kraken provides a strong foundation for advancing the group’s mission.

Sources confirm that the CCI will continue to prioritize engagement with policymakers in Washington, D.C., while monitoring developments in the European Union and Asia. The group’s upcoming agenda includes discussions on potential U.S. tax reforms for crypto transactions and the implications of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) for private sector innovation [3].

The appointment of Ji Hun Kim as CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation underscores the sector’s ongoing efforts to align with regulatory expectations while promoting technological advancement. As the U.S. and other jurisdictions refine their approaches to crypto, the CCI’s role in facilitating dialogue between industry and government is likely to remain central to the sector’s trajectory.

Sources:

[1] [title1] [url1](https://www.tradingview.com/news/cointelegraph:c60662b7f094b:0-ex-gemini-kraken-exec-appointed-as-ceo-of-crypto-advocacy-group/)

[2] [title2] [url2](https://cryptonews.com/news/crypto-council-for-innovation-names-ji-hun-kim-as-ceo-after-sheila-warren-departure/)

[3] [title3] [url3](https://cryptoforinnovation.org/ccl-appoints-ji-hun-kim-chief-executive-officer-adds-sofi-as-member/)