Appointment Announced in Washington
A permanent director now sits atop the SEC's Office of International Affairs, and it is Kathleen M. Hutchinson. The agency put that on the record from Washington on 24 June 2026, as release 2026-58.
Highlights
- Hutchinson now leads the SEC's international affairs office on a permanent footing.
- Hutchinson began her SEC career in 2003 as an attorney-advisor in the Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations.
- Her first SEC home carries a different name today, the Division of Examinations.
- Her transfer into international work came in 2008.
- Hutchinson had twice served as Acting Director of the office, most recently since January 2025.
Career at the SEC
An attorney-advisor post in the Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations started her at the agency in 2003. What was then that office now operates under the name Division of Examinations. By 2008 she had moved across into international work. Within the office she held the positions of Deputy Director and Assistant Director. She served as Acting Director of the office since January 2025, having held the acting role twice in total.
Education and Early Career
Her joint J.D. and M.A. were awarded by American University, across its Washington College of Law and its School of International Service. Private practice in Washington and New York opened her legal career.
Role of the Office of International Affairs
Three jobs define the office she inherits: advising the Commission on cross-border policy, working alongside overseas authorities, and supplying technical assistance.
“Kathleen has exhibited her dedication to public service and her commitment to our mission for over two decades, and I am grateful for her readiness to lead our Office of International Affairs on a permanent basis.”
“The talented staff in our Office of International Affairs make it a privilege to come to work each day and serve investors and our markets.”