The American Financial Services Association (AFSA) has announced the appointment of Celia Winslow as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, following the planned retirement of Bill Himpler.
According to the press release, Winslow steps into her new role with nearly two decades of experience advocating for the consumer credit industry on Capitol Hill. She emphasized the importance of balancing industry clarity with consumer safeguards, stating, "I look forward to working with our talented team and continuing to advocate clear rules of the road for our industry and sound, appropriate protections for consumers." Winslow also expressed gratitude for outgoing CEO Bill Himpler’s mentorship, describing his support as invaluable during this leadership transition.
Under Himpler's stewardship, who joined AFSA in 2004 and became its top executive in 2018, the organization experienced significant growth. AFSA Chairman Dan Walters praised Himpler’s efforts by saying, "Bill Himpler worked tirelessly to grow our association in both size and influence during his tenure," while expressing confidence in Winslow’s ability to continue that progress due to her "proven leadership and ability in the public policy, legal and regulatory arenas." Himpler will remain as a senior adviser through 2025 and reflected on his tenure by noting, "It’s been an honor to lead AFSA, and I’m thrilled for Celia and the opportunities ahead."
According to their website, AFSA member organizations issued more than $200 billion in consumer credit products over the past year. These products include personal loans, vehicle loans, credit cards, and home loans. The scale of this activity demonstrates AFSA’s significant presence in the U.S. financial system.
Founded in 1916, AFSA is the nation’s longest-running trade group devoted solely to the consumer credit market. According to its official website, it represents a membership that includes installment lenders, auto finance providers, mortgage lenders, and credit card companies.