APA is in the process of engaging a search firm to lead a comprehensive, nationwide search for APA’s next Chief Executive Officer, as current CEO Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, has announced his retirement effective January 3, 2028. Under APA’s Bylaws, the CEO must be a psychologist who qualifies for membership in the Association. The APA CEO Search Committee, appointed by the Board of Directors on the recommendation of 2026 APA President Wendi Williams, will oversee the process in close coordination with the search firm.
Search committee
The APA Board of Directors, on the recommendation of APA President Wendi Williams, PhD, has appointed a 10-member CEO search committee to oversee the national search for APA’s next CEO. Williams will chair the committee, which will work in close coordination with the search firm.
The CEO search committee is charged with ensuring a rigorous, transparent, and inclusive search that reflects the breadth of APA’s membership and the priorities of the field. To protect the integrity of the process, seated committee members have all declared that they are not and do not plan to become candidates for the CEO position, and any internal or board-connected candidates will go through the same vetting process as all external candidates.
Search process
Select the search firm
The CEO Search Committee will recommend a search firm to the Board of Directors for approval.
Set the profile and goals
The CEO Search Committee, supported by the search firm partner, will begin by engaging with stakeholders within the APA community to inform the search, including gathering perspectives on what APA most needs in the next decade to continue its momentum and impact. That important input from the APA community will inform the development of the leadership profile.
Identify candidates and evaluate applicants
The search firm will distribute the profile and identify and evaluate applicants. Members of the APA community will have access to the leadership profile and are encouraged to share with potential candidates in their networks.
Curate and interview a slate
The CEO Search Committee will approve a slate of candidates and forward it to the Board of Directors for consideration. Candidates will be interviewed, and references and credentials will be verified.
Nominate and confirm
The Board of Directors will select its nominee from the slate and forward the nomination to the Council of Representatives for confirmation by a two-thirds vote. There is a minimum seven-day electronic balloting period for the Council confirmation vote.
Offer and transition
The goal is to select a new CEO by late 2027, with a start date not later than January 4, 2028.
Member and stakeholder input
APA is committed to a transparent process that reflects the priorities of its members and elected leaders, and accountability to the public. The CEO Search Committee will share more details on how input will be solicited, but we expect it to include opportunities for all members to share their thoughts.
