The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has announced that it is assembling a panel of experts with "innovative ideas and a keen perspective on how consumer finance markets affect American consumers," as described by the CFPB. The CFPB's Consumer Advisory Board will provide the CFPB with outside guidance the Bureau will need as it moves forward with its initiatives. The Consumer Advisory Board will offer us outside guidance and advise us on emerging financial trends, concerns, and practices. 

"One way that the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act makes sure that we hear from a variety of experts with a variety of viewpoints is by requiring us to set up the Consumer Advisory Board," said the CFPB's Web site. "Today, we begin the process of setting up the Board to advise us and consult with us on consumer financial issues. Board members will provide the Bureau with information about emerging trends and practices in the financial-services and financial-products industries."

Parties interested in becoming a member of the Consumer Advisory Board can click here to begin the nomination process. The CFPB is seeking experts in a variety of fields, from consumer protection, fair lending, to those involved with consumer financial products or services, and community development. The Board will include people from diverse backgrounds with varying viewpoints.

Interested applicants must submit a nomination letter and a complete resume/CV and e-mail it to CABnominations@cfpb.gov by Friday, March 30, 2012. Nominations may also be submitted by mail to by March 30 to the attention of Monica Jackson/CAB Nominations, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue NW (Attn: 1801 L Street), Washington, DC 20220.