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By John McCrank
April 21 (Reuters) - Virtu Financial Inc said on Friday Robert Greifeld stepped down as chairman of the global trading firm's board to pursue other opportunities, and that Michael Viola would take over the role.
Greifeld, the former Chief Executive Officer of Nasdaq Inc, resigned from Virtu's board to focus on the launch of Cornerstone FTM, a financial technology focused investment fund that he heads, as well as board and leadership roles with other financial and philanthropic organizations, Virtu said.
"Bob's tenure as chairman included a period of significant growth for Virtu, including our acquisitions of KCG Holdings and ITG, Inc. His leadership has been critical, and we wish him well in his new venture," Virtu CEO Douglas Cifu said in a statement.
Viola, who has served on Virtu's board since 2016 and was also a senior foreign exchange and commodities trader at the firm, is the son of Virtu cofounder Vincent Viola.
Greifeld is also chairman of the USA Track & Field Foundation. (Reporting by John McCrank Editing by Frances Kerry)
