Christopher Gandy Takes the Helm as NAIFA President for 2026-2027 Term
In a significant development for the financial services industry, Christopher L. Gandy has been elected as the President of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) for the term spanning 2026 to 2027. Gandy is renowned as the Founder and CEO of The Legacy Wealth Group LLC and is held in high regard within the financial community. This announcement was made on December 2, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in his illustrious career.
NAIFA, established in 1890 as the oldest financial association in the United States, is based in Washington, D.C., and has a mission to elevate professional standards, advocate for financial professionals at federal and state levels, and foster a community of practitioners dedicated to ethical practices. Gandy expressed his gratitude by stating, "Being elected to lead NAIFA is one of the greatest honors of my professional life. This association represents the heart of our industry—financial professionals who show up every day to protect families, guide businesses, and secure financial futures."
Gandy's vision for his presidency includes prioritizing inclusion within the financial advisory profession, enhancing access to financial education, and preparing the next generation of advisors to lead with integrity. With a rich background that includes over two decades of experience advising high-net-worth individuals and advocating for consumers, Gandy possesses a unique blend of expertise that is essential for this influential role. Throughout his career, he has been deeply committed to promoting ethical leadership and financial literacy, while also actively participating in community initiatives aimed at uplifting the advisory sector.
Since joining NAIFA in 2003, Gandy has progressively climbed the ranks, having served in multiple peer-elected leadership roles including President-Elect and Board Secretary. He will officially assume the NAIFA presidency in January 2026, where he will navigate the national strategy, legislative advocacy, and professional development programs that support financial advisors across the nation. Gandy's goal during his presidency is not only to reaffirm NAIFA's position as the leading voice for financial advisors but also to introduce more leadership development pathways and advocate for consumer access to ethical advisors.
His career trajectory from being an accomplished professional basketball player to a respected leader in financial services illustrates his dynamic adaptability. Gandy, a former player with teams such as the Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs, transitioned to financial services in 1999 and has excelled in areas like wealth strategy, insurance planning, and retirement solutions.
Gandy graduated in 1997 with a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, an institution he credits for shaping his professional identity as a leader. He stated, “The University of Illinois shaped me as a financial professional by developing the foundation of who I am—not only as an athlete or a lifelong learner, but as a leader.”
In addition to his work with NAIFA, Gandy is dedicated to several community efforts, including supporting organizations that promote financial literacy, such as the Urban League and the Chicago Concussion Coalition. His unwavering commitment extends to mentorship programs across the U.S., demonstrating his passion for nurturing future leaders in the financial sector. As he embarks on this new chapter, Gandy's impressive blend of experience, vision, and dedication is anticipated to have a profound impact on the financial services landscape, empowering professionals and consumers alike.
For more insights and updates regarding Christopher Gandy and his initiatives with NAIFA, you can visit his website at www.Christopher-Gandy.com.