#USA #Chicago #CEO #Cresset #Susie Cranston

Cresset's Leadership Transition: A New Era with Susie Cranston

Cresset, a prominent multi-family office recognized across the nation, recently shared significant news regarding its leadership structure. On March 10, 2026, the firm declared that Susie Cranston, the current President, will step into the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective on April 15, 2026. This strategic transition reflects the firm's ongoing commitment to maintaining continuity and enhancing its stewardship towards the families it serves.

Co-founders Avy Stein and Eric Becker will continue to play vital roles as Executive Co-Chairs, actively involved in shaping the firm’s culture and overseeing critical growth strategies. Their sustained engagement ensures that the values and mission of Cresset remain at the forefront of its operations as it embarks on this new chapter.

Cranston’s journey within Cresset began in April 2024 as President, where she has significantly contributed to the firm’s daily operations alongside Stein and Becker. This appointment to CEO not only aligns her title with her responsibilities but also signals a thoughtful approach to succession planning—one that reinforces the importance of leadership continuity in financial stewardship.

In a statement, Avy Stein remarked, "When Eric and I founded Cresset, our vision was to create a firm dedicated to serving families with integrity and respect across generations. Susie exemplifies these ideals with her clarity of vision and sound judgment. Formalizing her role as CEO is a natural progression that aligns with her leadership qualities."

Echoing this sentiment, Eric Becker added, "Susie has played an essential role in fostering Cresset’s culture, emphasizing a client-first approach across the firm. Her combination of discipline and empathy is vital for the road ahead with her as CEO."

Throughout her tenure as President, Cranston has been instrumental in strengthening Cresset’s platform while firmly focusing on serving families with intricate financial needs. The following key aspects highlight some of the advancements made during her leadership:

• - Expansion of Capabilities: Cresset has diversified its offerings through values-aligned acquisitions and enhancements to its operational and risk management frameworks.
• - Investing in Human Capital: Talent acquisition and organizational culture have been prioritized to ensure a strong workforce that is capable of navigating complex client needs.
• - Disciplined Growth Approach: The firm has committed to a long-term strategy, ensuring sustained growth while maintaining a solid foundation for serving its clients.

Before her tenure at Cresset, Cranston cultivated a wealth of experience in advising clients through complexity and leading organizations with care. Her prior roles at First Republic Bank and J.P. Morgan Chase, and her engagements with McKinsey & Company have equipped her with a profound understanding of multigenerational family dynamics and the importance of personalized wealth management.

Cranston expressed her gratitude regarding her new role, stating, "Cresset is a remarkable firm, founded on principles of stewardship and entrepreneurial spirit. I am deeply thankful for the trust placed in me and look forward to working alongside Avy, Eric, and our exceptional team as we continue to serve our clients and craft a legacy that endures for generations."

The collaborative efforts of Stein, Becker, and Cranston position Cresset to thrive in its mission of providing effective and transparent wealth management to ultra-high-net-worth families. As the firm transitions into this new leadership chapter, its steadfast commitment to continuity, shared values, and long-term alignment with the families it serves remains resolute.

Cresset is more than just a wealth management firm; it’s a partner to families navigating their intricate financial journeys, reimagining the family office experience with tailored strategies that aim to grow, preserve, and transition wealth through generations. With locations across major U.S. cities, Cresset remains dedicated to nurturing lasting relationships, shared success, and helping clients lead lives filled with purpose, impact, and joy.