SEC Enforcement leadership sees transition as Waldon departs after 14 years

The US Securities and Exchange Commission announced on 22 July 2026 that Sam Waldon, Principal Deputy Director of the Division of Enforcement, will depart the agency on 31 July 2026. Waldon leaves after more than 14 years of service, marking the end of a significant tenure within the federal regulator’s enforcement arm.

Waldon will be succeeded by Osman Nawaz, who rejoined the SEC last month after previously serving with the agency from 2010 to 2024. Nawaz returns to the Division of Enforcement, where he previously held roles including staff attorney, Assistant Regional Director, and Chief of the Complex Financial Instruments Unit.

SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins and Enforcement Director David Woodcock issued public statements praising Waldon’s leadership and work ethic. Atkins noted that Waldon’s contributions were well documented and reflected in the key leadership roles he held during his time at the commission. Woodcock highlighted Waldon’s steadfast commitment and mentorship to colleagues, stating that his positive impact would endure long after his departure.

Waldon’s career at the SEC began as a staff attorney, progressing to Assistant Chief Counsel before he served as Chief Counsel in the Division of Enforcement from 2022 to 2024. He also acted as Deputy Director from October 2024 to January 2025 and served as Acting Director of Enforcement on two occasions in 2025 and 2026.

In 2011, Waldon received the SEC’s Philip A. Loomis, Jr. Award for outstanding legal scholarship and analysis. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Virginia Tech and a juris doctorate from the University of Texas School of Law. The specific reasons for his departure were not detailed in the press release, with Waldon expressing gratitude for his time at the agency and confidence in the future of the enforcement division.