Nazia Saeed
Ji Hun Kim, a former Gemini and Kraken executive, has been appointed as the permanent CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation (CCI), following his tenure as acting CEO since December 2024. The CCI, a prominent crypto advocacy organization, announced the appointment on Thursday after Kim had served as president and interim CEO since January.
Kim’s extensive background in the cryptocurrency sector includes roles as chief legal and policy officer at CCI and three years at Gemini and less than a year at Kraken. His legal expertise and deep industry knowledge are seen as crucial assets for leading the organization as it navigates a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.
A Vision for Bridging Technology and Public Policy
In his new role as permanent CEO, Kim expressed optimism about the future of the crypto industry, especially as regulatory clarity increases. “This is a pivotal moment of evolution for our industry, one that requires serious, informed engagement,” said Kim. “I look forward to continuing to build an institution that serves as a bridge between technology and public policy, grounded in facts, trust, and respect around the world.”
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The CCI is one of several advocacy groups actively engaging with US lawmakers and regulators on digital asset policy, striving to foster innovation while ensuring compliance with emerging regulatory frameworks. Kim’s leadership is expected to strengthen the organization’s role as a key player in the crypto regulatory conversation.
Leadership Transition at the CCI
Before Kim’s appointment as acting CEO, Sheila Warren led the CCI as CEO for three years. Warren left the organization just a month before the Trump administration took office, after helping shape the CCI into a significant voice in crypto advocacy. With Kim now at the helm, the CCI aims to continue its efforts to shape US crypto policy.
New Crypto Regulations Take Center Stage in US Policy
Regulation of digital assets remains a key focus for US lawmakers. On July 18, President Donald Trump signed the GENIUS Act, which outlines stablecoin regulations. The bill is part of a broader push to address central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), market structure, and payment stablecoins, with key pieces of legislation advancing through the US House of Representatives.
The Senate is expected to take up the remaining bills on CBDCs and digital asset market structure after its August recess. The Senate Banking Committee has set a September deadline for the market structure bill, though it may need to pass back through the House for further review. As these discussions unfold, Kim and the CCI will likely play a central role in advocating for policies that balance innovation with regulatory oversight.
