Planned Parenthood is kicking off its search to replace departing President Cecile Richards, the organization's board of directors announced Wednesday.

Former Planned Parenthood board member Anna Quindlen was elected to lead the group's search committee for a new president. The committee also includes members of Planned Parenthood's board and CEOs from affiliates in Ohio, Florida and Minnesota.

"We are confident that our leadership at the national office and at Planned Parenthood affiliates will maintain the organization’s momentum as we search for a new president to replace the outstanding and dynamic leadership of Cecile Richards," Board Chairwoman Naomi Aberly said in a statement.

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The committee will work with a firm to conduct a nationwide search to identify a pool of candidates to replace Richards, who is set to leave in May after 12 years at the organization.

Planned Parenthood said in a release that Richards's successor will need to build on the group's 100-year legacy and reflect the diversity of the organization.

Joe Solmonese, a current board member who previously served as president of the Human Rights Campaign and former CEO of Emily's List, will oversee day-to-day operations of Planned Parenthood as the chair of the transition team after Richards steps down.