In a major restructuring move, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is revamping its enforcement and exams divisions, shifting oversight under newly appointed deputy directors. The internal memo, outlining the changes, signals a fresh chapter in the agency’s operations amid a broader transformation of government institutions.
The overhaul, set to take effect on April 9, introduces a regionalized leadership model. Instead of a single deputy director overseeing enforcement, four new deputies will now take charge—covering the West, Northeast, and Southeast, along with specialized units. The exam division will also see its staff report under newly designated associate directors.
This shake-up comes at a time of significant workforce turnover within the agency. Hundreds of SEC employees have accepted resignation offers, part of a larger governmental reshaping effort. The SEC acknowledged the restructuring aims to streamline operations, address managerial inefficiencies, and enhance oversight across divisions.
The changes follow last year’s closure of the Salt Lake City office after a major legal misstep involving a cryptocurrency case, which resulted in judicial censure. The agency had already hinted at regional director cuts, and Wednesday’s memo confirmed that nine directors have been reassigned.
Among the new regional heads: Katherine Zoladz (West), Nekia Jones (Southeast), and Antonia Apps (Northeast), with Jason Burt overseeing specialized units. The restructuring reflects an ongoing shift in regulatory strategy, as the SEC navigates a turbulent financial landscape under new leadership.
