Key pioneer transcription factor of B-cell specification and commitment. Recognizes variations of the palindromic sequence 5'-ATTCCCNNGGGAATT-3'. Operates in a transcription factor network to activate B-cell-specific genes and repress genes associated with alternative cell fates. For instance, positively regulates many B-cell specific genes including BCR or CD40 while repressing genes that direct cells into alternative lineages, including GATA3 and TCF7 for the T-cell lineage. In addition to its role during lymphopoiesis, controls the thermogenic gene program in adipocytes during development and in response to environmental cold. Homodimer (By similarity). Interacts with ZNF423 and ZNF521, leading to prevent EBF1 to bind DNA and activate target genes (PubMed:9151733). Interacts with CCR4-NOT component CNOT3 (By similarity). Expressed exclusively in olfactory receptor neurons and their precursors. Belongs to the COE family.