Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong announced that Chief Legal Officer Paul Grewal will step down after six years, transitioning to an advisory role and remaining on the Board of Coinbase National Trust Company. Grewal helped lead the company’s direct listing, SEC legal battles, and efforts to advance crypto legislation through the GENIUS and CLARITY Acts. Molly Abraham will become General Counsel, while Ryan VanGrack takes over as Vice Chairman for government and regulatory affairs. The leadership change comes as Armstrong pushes for clearer crypto regulations and global expansion.
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has initiated another crucial leadership transition as Chief Legal Officer Paul Grewal announced he will step down at the end of the month. Grewal spent six years at the crypto exchange and will remain as an adviser and on the Board of Coinbase National Trust Company.
Grewal called his tenure at Coinbase “the opportunity of a lifetime” in a post on X. He thanked CEO Brian Armstrong, President and COO Emilie Choi, the board of directors, and his fellow employees for their support during his career.
Grewal was instrumental in Coinbase’s direct listing and was at the forefront when the company sued the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. He also worked with legislators to create clear crypto regulations, backing efforts such as the GENIUS Act and the CLARITY Act proposals.
After his resignation, Molly Abraham will become General Counsel. Grewal stated she has worked with him for more than five years and is ready to take charge of the legal department. Ryan VanGrack has been named Vice Chairman, responsible for fostering good relations with government and regulatory agencies.
The change in leadership comes amid Armstrong’s calls for more explicit crypto regulations and expansion into other parts of the world. Several notable figures, including Patrick Witt, CFTC Commissioner Caroline Pham, Eleanor Terrett, and Jake Chervinsky, complimented Grewal on the news. Grewal will stay on as an advisor as Armstrong leads the company’s dealings with regulators and lawmakers to achieve long-term growth.
