A Letter from AFP President & CEO Jim Kaitz on His Retirement
Association for Financial Professionals
Helping Corporate Financial Professionals Worldwide Achieve Their Greatest Career Potential
Dear AFP Community,
I find it hard to believe that 26 years have flown by in what feels like the blink of an eye. It has truly been a remarkable journey filled with challenges, growth and, most importantly, countless cherished memories.
AFP has emerged stronger from the pandemic and is on a substantial growth trajectory. The incredible turnout at AFP 2024, where we have the largest number of corporate practitioners to ever attend an AFP event, is a testament to the strength of the AFP community and the global treasury and finance profession at large.
At the AFP 2024 Opening Keynote, I announced that I will retire on June 30, 2025. AFP’s Board Chair Michael L. High, CMA, FPAC , also announced that the Board of Directors voted to elect Patrick Culkin , Executive Vice President, as the new President & CEO of AFP, effective on July 1, 2025.
AFP has always been, first and foremost, about the people. Our North Star is helping treasury and finance professionals succeed at all stages of their careers. With 22 years of experience at AFP, Pat understands this mission deeply and has been the driving force behind our organizational strategic plan to grow AFP and the profession in the years to come.
In my remaining time as President & CEO, I will work closely with Pat to ensure a seamless transition. We have a great foundation to build on for AFP’s continued growth, and I am truly excited about AFP’s future.
In closing, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to all of the AFP staff that I have worked with over the past 26 years. I’ve also had the privilege of working alongside some of the most talented and inspiring individuals, each contributing to my personal and professional growth. I will carry these memories with me as I embark on my next adventure.
For more information about the leadership transition, I invite you to read the press release announcing the news.
Best,
Jim Kaitz
AFP President & CEO
Experienced Program Management, Sales Development & Continuing Education Professional
3moCongratulations Jim Kaitz, you were a fantastic first CEO to introduce me to the world of trade associations. Enjoy retirement!
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3moCongratulations, Jim! I have fond memories of working at AFP back in the early years of your time there. Best of luck and I hope you enjoy retirement.
Congratulations on your incredible career Jim Kaitz - I can’t believe it’s been 26 years! Thank you for all you invested in me 20+ years ago. Wishing you much success with your next adventure!
Jim - Congratulations!!! AFP is, without a doubt, a global brand today because of your tutelage. Your leadership remains the gold standard that I continue to aspire to each day:-) I am also THRILLED to learn that Pat has been voted by the board as your successor!! I know the staff and the finance community in general will miss you. However, we all know this retirement is well deserved. Thank you for the coach and mentor you have been to me over the years. I can't wait to hear what's next for you. Wishing you all the best...Pam