Plaid hires ex-FDIC chief Jelena McWilliams

Plaid Welcomes Former FDIC Chair Jelena McWilliams as President of Corporate and External Affairs

Plaid, a leading fintech company, has recently announced the appointment of Jelena McWilliams, the former Chair of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC), as its new president of corporate and external affairs. The news was shared on Plaid’s blog on Thursday.

In a statement, Plaid CEO Zach Perret praised McWilliams as a strong advocate for transparency, consumer protection, and innovation. Perret expressed confidence in McWilliams’ ability to drive innovation within the industry and at Plaid.

McWilliams’ Background and Previous Roles

Prior to joining Plaid, Jelena McWilliams served as the Chair of the FDIC from 2018 to 2021. Her tenure at the FDIC was marked by a commitment to regulatory transparency and consumer rights. McWilliams’ leadership was instrumental in shaping the agency’s policies during her time in office.

Following her departure from the FDIC, McWilliams joined the law firm Cravath, Swaine & Moore, where she led the firm’s Washington, D.C., office. During her tenure at the firm, McWilliams played a key role in the bankruptcy case of fintech middleman Synapse, highlighting the importance of financial transparency and accountability.

Recognition and Industry Impact

Plaid CEO Zach Perret emphasized McWilliams’ unique blend of policy expertise, legal background, and financial acumen. He highlighted her deep understanding of financial systems and her commitment to driving positive change within the industry.

McWilliams’ presence in the fintech sector is expected to have a significant impact, given her previous role at the FDIC. Her experience and insights are likely to influence regulatory discussions and decisions within the industry.

Continued Influence

It is worth noting that McWilliams’ influence may still be felt at the FDIC, where current Chair Travis Hill previously served as her adviser and deputy of policy. This connection underscores the ongoing relevance of McWilliams’ contributions to the regulatory landscape.

Overall, Jelena McWilliams’ appointment at Plaid signals a new chapter in her distinguished career, bringing her wealth of experience and expertise to drive innovation and positive change within the fintech industry.

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