LPL is expanding its commitment to technology leadership as it gives an experienced cybersecurity leader a seat on its C-suite.
On Monday, LPL Financial announced the appointment of Renana Friedlich as executive vice president and chief information security officer.
With more than 20 years of experience in cybersecurity across various industries, Friedlich will oversee the firm’s cybersecurity strategy, including protecting its IT infrastructure, networks, and data.
Friedlich will report to Greg Gates, managing director and chief technology and information officer, who highlighted the importance of her role in enhancing the firm’s defenses against cyber threats.
“Renana joins us with a proven track record of pioneering security solutions,” Gates said in a statement Monday. “Her leadership will be instrumental in strengthening our security posture and propelling LPL and financial advisors toward a secure and resilient future.”
In her previous role as deputy chief information security officer at PayPal, Friedlich led a team of 120 security professionals focused on cyber threat management. Earlier in her career, she worked at EY, advising Fortune 500 companies on breach preparedness, and served seven years in the military.
Friedlich expressed enthusiasm about joining LPL during a critical time for cybersecurity in financial services.
“LPL understands that robust cybersecurity is non-negotiable. I’m thrilled to join a firm that prioritizes security and strives to lead the way in safeguarding advisors, financial institutions and investors,” she said.
A recognized thought leader in the field, Friedlich serves on advisory boards for universities and technology startups and is a frequent keynote speaker at cybersecurity conferences. She will be based in LPL’s San Diego headquarters.
Friedrich's hiring comes shortly after the firm unveiled its AI Advisor Solutions program, under which the broker-dealer giant is giving thousands of advisors across its platform access to a curated selection of leading vendors in the AI space.
Friedlich is also the first significant executive addition to LPL under the leadership of Rich Steinmeier, who officially took on the role of CEO in October. Prior to his confirmation, Steinmeier briefly served as interim chief executive for several weeks following the abrupt October 1st termination of former LPL CEO Dan Arnold, who the company said was let go for making statements to employees that violated its code of conduct.
From outstanding individuals to innovative organizations, find out who made the final shortlist for top honors at the IN awards, now in its second year.
Cresset's Susie Cranston is expecting an economic recession, but says her $65 billion RIA sees "great opportunity" to keep investing in a down market.
“There’s a big pull to alternative investments right now because of volatility of the stock market,” Kevin Gannon, CEO of Robert A. Stanger & Co., said.
Sellers shift focus: It's not about succession anymore.
Platform being adopted by independent-minded advisors who see insurance as a core pillar of their business.
RIAs face rising regulatory pressure in 2025. Forward-looking firms are responding with embedded technology, not more paperwork.
As inheritances are set to reshape client portfolios and next-gen heirs demand digital-first experiences, firms are retooling their wealth tech stacks and succession models in real time.
