FamilySearch chooses new CEO/President

Effective October 1, 2015, current President and CEO of FamilySearch, International, Dennis Brimhall, will be retiring and the new President and CEO of FamilySearch will be Steve Rockwood. In a letter sent to Church-service missionaries, Elder Allan F. Packer explained as follows:

The last few years have been a time of change and growth for the Family History Department and FamilySearch International as we continue the important work of connecting families and individuals to their ancestors.

Today we announce a transition of leadership in the family history team. This change will occur over the next few months and will become effective October 1, 2015.

We announce that effective October 1, 2015 Dennis Brimhall will be retiring and Steve Rockwood will be the new managing director for the Family History Department as well as President and CEO of FamilySearch International. Steve will be responsible for the continued development of family history and building on the solid foundation and momentum achieved by you, our ambassadors, under Dennis' leadership.

Steve's dedication to the Family History Department, along with his in-depth experience and passion make him the ideal candidate to assume the responsibilities associated with this role. He has the full confidence of the Church's senior leadership.

I would like to congratulate Steve as he takes this new leadership role.

Dennis expressed confidence in this new appointment. "There's not a better leader to move the department forward than Steve. He understands our passion and unrelenting commitment to our patrons and the important role of our ambassadors and members of the Church. I am confident Steve will continue to lead the department in a way that benefits our patrons and the worldwide interest in family history."

I look forward to the new leadership and wish Steve Rockwood my congratulations on his new appointment.