From the Editor...

We were very saddened by the news last week that David Tittsworth has passed away. Tittsworth, 66, had been in treatment for multiple myeloma and died on Jan. 8, according to the Investment Adviser Association. Tittsworth was CEO and president of the IAA for 18 years before joining Ropes & Gray as counsel in mid-2015. 

While at IAA, Tittsworth moved what was then a relatively small organization from New York to Washington and developed it into a trade association with more than 500 member firms managing more than $12 trillion. "David leaves behind a distinguished and successful legacy. The trade association he built continues to grow and thrive, just like the community it represents. David will be warmly remembered and deeply missed," IAA President and CEO Karen Barr said in a statement. 

In an email, Bryan Chegwidden, partner and head of the Global Asset Management Group at Ropes & Gray, said: “David had a truly impressive career and was known as one of the foremost experts on securities law and policy issues relating to the investment management industry. The firm, and our clients, truly valued his wise counsel and deep understanding of the asset management landscape, enriched by his quick wit and warm demeanor. His family and friends are in our thoughts.”

Tittsworth was a willing and knowledgable source for reporters covering the investment management industry, always welcoming, helpful, and enjoyable to talk to. He'll be missed in all corners of the business.

Fund Board Views last week brought subscribers a new Viewpoints ebook, this one including all of the Viewpoints published in 2019. By putting these contributed pieces together in PDF form, we hope our readers can use it as a one-stop resource. The volume covers a variety of topics from some of the industry's best and brightest. Make sure to download your copy today.

We also published an exclusive interview with the new independent chairman of JPMorgan Funds, John Finn. Finn took over the chairmanship Jan. 1 from Matt Goldstein, who had been in the position for seven years before retiring on Dec. 31. Like Goldstein did before him, Finn has embarked on a review of the board's practices and policies. Take a few minutes to read this latest A Seat at the Table for some insight into how one board is handling change at the top. 

Happy New Year/New Decade to all our readers! We're happy to have you along with us on this ride, as we head into these roarin' '20s. Be sure to read our most recent 10 Things... list for an idea of what's on independent directors' minds as we get started in 2020.

For now,

Hillary Jackson, founding editor