Cerity Partners announced the appointment of Will Peng as its first Chief Innovation Officer. The firm said the appointment reflects its commitment to using technology and AI to enhance workflows and the client experience as it continues to grow.
In this role, Peng will focus on firmwide innovation strategy. His responsibilities include improving Cerity Partners’ service model, connecting cross-functional expertise across the business, applying AI to build scalable workflows and capabilities, and strengthening the “CP Way” experience for clients, advisors, and colleagues.
Peng brings experience as an entrepreneur, executive, and product leader. Most recently, he was Founder and CEO of Northstar, a fintech company focused on expanding access to high-quality financial advice.
Northstar built an employee financial wellness and advisory platform. The company partnered with major employers including Workday, Airbnb, and Affirm.
Before founding Northstar, Peng was a Partner at Red Swan, an early-stage venture capital firm. Red Swan’s portfolio included Coinbase, Guideline, Hinge, Oscar Health, and Warby Parker.
Peng is also an advisor to technology executives and an investor in technology companies. Cerity Partners said his appointment supports its continued investment in an entrepreneurial approach and technology-enabled growth.
Cerity Partners is a nationally recognized Registered Investment Adviser. The firm said the addition of Peng will help support its next phase of growth by bringing established technology and AI expertise into its operating model.
KEY QUOTES:
“As Cerity Partners continues to grow and evolve, bringing someone of Will’s caliber to lead our innovation agenda is a defining moment for the firm. His rare combination of entrepreneurial experience, fintech expertise, and deep understanding of AI positions him perfectly to accelerate how we deliver the CP Way for our clients, advisors, and colleagues. We are thrilled to welcome him to the partnership.”
Kevin Hilden, President of Cerity Partners
