NEW YORK (NOV. 22, 2024) – 100 Women in Finance (“100WF”) today announces the appointment of Kellan Brown as Chief Operating Officer/Chief Development Officer. Kellan will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction and operational excellence of 100WF, with oversight of revenue, programs and initiatives, volunteer engagement, membership development, corporate partnerships, and marketing and communications.
“Kellan’s deep commitment to empowering women and her proven leadership make her the right person to carry this important work forward and continue advancing our mission,” said Carole Crawford, Chair of the Board of Directors at 100WF.
Kellan brings over 15 years of executive leadership experience across three industries, with a proven track record in driving strategic growth and developing impactful mentorship programs for both corporate and nonprofit organizations. Kellan has earned industry accolades such as the Disruptor Award from WealthManagement.com and the Ascension Award for women-led companies, while her leadership of the FinServ Foundation’s mentorship program earned global recognition from WealthBriefing.
Kellan is an advisory member of Hand to Hand, a Foundation Fund that grants funding for women-led nonprofit organizations and is an advisory board member for Focal, an enterprise grade AI technology solution for wealth management firms. In addition to her nonprofit and board work, Kellan was the Chief Growth Officer for a financial technology firm and led the Retirement Strategies Division at Finance of America where she also chaired the Mentorship committee.
“It is not often you are given the opportunity to serve your personal mission as a career – this is a true honor, and I am thrilled to be a part of an organization that provides resources to support and advance women in financial services,” said Kellan Brown. “When women support each other, incredible transformations in the financial world take place, reshaping the landscape for all.”
Kellan will step into the role of COO/CDO, succeeding Debbie McLean, who served as Interim Executive Director during a pivotal time of change for 100WF. Additionally, the organization is in the final stages of evaluating qualified candidates to fill its vacant CEO role, to whom Kellan eventually will report.
“Debbie has been invaluable in strengthening the organization’s operations, inspiring the team through transition, and laying a strong foundation for future growth,” said Ms. Crawford. “We are deeply grateful her tireless dedication as Interim Executive Director and are looking forward to her continued partnership as a member of the 100WF community.”
“Leading 100WF during this pivotal time has been an incredible privilege,” said Ms. McLean. “It’s been an honor to work alongside such a dedicated staff team, committed board members, and passionate volunteers, and who are the heart of this remarkable organization,” said Ms. McLean. “Together, we’ve strengthened its foundation for continued success, and I am deeply grateful to have been part of this journey.”
Kellan began her role on November 18 and is working with the team and board to execute a smooth transition. Russell Reynolds Associates assisted in placing Kellan Brown at 100WF and is additionally directing the search for the organization’s CEO.
About 100 Women in Finance
100 Women in Finance is a global nonprofit membership organization established in 2001, committed to advancing women in the finance industry to achieve their professional potential at every career stage. Our diverse membership spans 30+ locations worldwide and is fueled by a network of global volunteers and corporate partners who collaborate to deliver our education, peer engagement, and impact initiatives. We strengthen the global finance industry by enabling female talent to attain roles that reflect their capacity to serve as executives and investors. Vision 30/40 is our guiding principle in which women will hold 30% of senior investment and executive roles by 2040. Visit 100women.org to learn more.