SEC names Hutchinson permanent head of international affairs
Kathleen M. Hutchinson appointed Director of Office of International Affairs, ending tenure as acting head since January 2025
The US Securities and Exchange Commission has appointed Kathleen M. Hutchinson as the permanent Director of its Office of International Affairs. The appointment, announced by SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins, marks the end of Hutchinson’s period as acting director, a role she has held since January 2025.
Hutchinson brings more than two decades of experience to the position, having joined the SEC in 2003 as an attorney-advisor in the Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations, which is now known as the Division of Examinations. She transferred to the Office of International Affairs in 2008, subsequently holding positions including Deputy Director and Assistant Director.
The Office of International Affairs plays a central role in the regulator’s global operations. It advises the Commission on international policy matters, coordinates with foreign authorities to facilitate cross-border enforcement and supervisory cooperation, and provides technical assistance to international counterparts.
Chairman Atkins highlighted Hutchinson’s dedication to public service and her commitment to the agency’s mission. He noted her effectiveness in guiding international initiatives with counterparts abroad and expressed confidence in her continued leadership on policy and cooperation issues.
In a statement, Hutchinson emphasised the importance of engaging with foreign authorities on policy, supervisory, and enforcement matters. She described the role as critical to the SEC’s ability to address evolving challenges facing global markets and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with the Commission and international regulators.
Hutchinson holds a J.D./M.A. from American University’s Washington College of Law and School of International Service, as well as a B.A. from Binghamton University. Prior to joining the SEC, she began her legal career in private practice in Washington D.C. and New York City.
Her permanent appointment follows two previous stints as acting director of the office. The SEC stated that her leadership will continue to focus on advancing the agency’s international priorities through sustained engagement with global regulators.
