Virtu Financial, Inc. (NYSE: Virt), a global, multilevel financial service provider that offers liquidity and innovative, transparent products, announced today that Douglas Cifu will retire as CEO and remain a Virtu consultant.
The Virtu Board of Directors has appointed the long -term head of technology Aaron Simons as a new CEO of the company and a member of the Board of Directors.
As a co -founder of Virtu, Mr Cifu has helped Virtu grow since its establishment, through the acquisition of Madison Tyler, his IPO in 2015 and the subsequent acquisitions of KCG and ITG that significantly expanded the virtu footprint on the world market and the execution services.
Aaron Simons previously served as Virtu Financial Vice President and Head of Technology. Mr Simons joined Virtu in 2008 after completing his postdoctoral research in theoretical physics and worked throughout the transaction and technology within the business. As a Virtu CTO, Mr Simons’ role included the supervision of all technologies and infrastructure, including technology integration after the merger of both KCG and ITG.
“For nearly 20 years, Doug has been a necessary partner, reliable advisor and a stable leader,” said Virtu Financial co -founder and peer President, Vincent Viola. “His contributions have helped to form the foundation and future of our business, I am deeply grateful for his faith, friendship and steadfast faith in our common vision, Doug’s legacy will endure the values that he defended and the many people who have defined the road.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank Doug for his excellent leadership and countless contributions to the business, it was a privilege to work with Doug, whose leadership, integrity and passion for Virtu have left an indelible sign.
Mr Viola continued: “Having worked closely with Aaron for more than a decade in his role as the head of technology, the Board of Directors is convinced that he has the leadership, the crisis and the vision to exploit our dynamics.
“It was the privilege of my career to drive and serve between and along with my great colleagues in Virtu and be part of its spectacular development, I can’t thank my partner, Vincent Viola said, enough to allow me to give me the opportunity. He is ahead as he continues to grow. “
“It is an honor to follow Doug, whose leadership has placed the virtu for long -term success. I am grateful for the confidence given to me by the Board of Directors and the strong institution that Doug helped us create,” said Incoming CEO, Aaron Simons. “Our strategic direction is clear and I am excited about what we can do together in the coming years.”