Blockchain Australia Names Former BlackRock Executive As Its New CEO

Laura Mercurio has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Blockchain Australia, a body representing individuals and firms involved in crypto businesses in the country.

She will replace Steve Vallas, who led the organization for two years, effective Sept. 12.

Mercurio has a rich background in traditional finance. She worked at Citigroup from 2001 to 2005 and later served as the global chief operating officer at BlackRock, the world's largest asset management firm. She also had a stint at Deutsche Bank.

Blockchain Australia said in an official announcement that Mercurio's appointment as the CEO could not have come at a better time as the crypto industry is heading into a "period of significant regulatory and policy consultation that will shape the regulatory future of digital assets in Australia."

"Laura will guide the organization in its ongoing mission to be the leading voice for digital assets and the blockchain industry in Australia through the growth of its membership base and through working closely with Government, government agencies & regulators to shape the future of blockchain technology and digital assets," it added.

Adam Poulton, chairman of the board of Blockchain Australia, said Mercurio "brings a unique passion, energy and enthusiasm" that will be a great match for the team.

"With the rapid adoption of Blockchain and crypto assets, there are opportunities ahead for this technology to fundamentally transform how industries solve day-to-day issues. I am looking forward to advancing the innovation ecosystem and working closely with members, industry, governments, and regulatory bodies to provide digital solutions," Mercurio said about her appointment as the new Blockchain Australia CEO.

She added that she aims to "drive innovation and change for Australian businesses in the blockchain space."

Many notable personalities have been leaving the traditional finance space recently in search of opportunities in the crypto world. Jill Sommers, for instance, left her post as a commissioner at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to join the board of directors of FTX US.