The CFA institute has appointed Paul Smith to the leadership role effective immediately.
In taking up his new role Mr Smith will replace Mr Churchill who was named the interim president and chief executive in June 2014 following the tenure of former president and CEO John Rogers.
Prior to his appointment, Mr Smith was the CFA Institute global head of institutional partnerships and managing director of APAC.
Before joining the CFA Institute in October 2012 Mr Smith was the chairman and chief executive of Asia Alternative Asset Partners.
“In his time with CFA Institute, [Mr Smith] has demonstrated the bold vision and strong leadership we need to advance the profession and shape a more trustworthy financial industry,” CFA Institute board of governors chairman Aaron Low said.
“[He] has made a significant contribution to the investment industry, and CFA Institute is well-positioned for continued growth and leadership under his direction,” Mr Low said.
The association highlighted that selecting Mr Smith for the role comes as the CFA institute aims to broaden its global reach with plans to increase its presence in China and India along with holding a number of global events.