SEC Enforcement Sees Leadership Shift as Sam Waldon Exits

• Sam Waldon will leave SEC Enforcement after more than 14 years of service.
• Osman Nawaz becomes Principal Deputy Director beginning July 31.
• Leadership transition comes as the SEC continues overseeing evolving crypto regulation.

SEC Enforcement is entering a new leadership phase after the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission announced that Principal Deputy Director Sam Waldon will leave the agency on July 31. The announcement comes after more than 14 years of service, during which Waldon held several senior enforcement roles. The SEC also confirmed that Osman Nawaz will succeed him, continuing the agency’s leadership transition.

SEC Enforcement Leadership Changes Follow Long Public Service

Sam Waldon joined the SEC as a staff attorney before advancing through several senior positions, including Chief Counsel and Acting Deputy Director. He also served twice as Acting Director of Enforcement during 2025 and 2026, reflecting his extensive experience within SEC Enforcement.

SEC Chairman Paul Atkins praised Waldon’s contributions, highlighting his leadership and counsel throughout his tenure. Enforcement Director David Woodcock also credited Waldon for mentoring colleagues and strengthening the division during challenging periods.

According to the official SEC announcement, Waldon received the Philip A. Loomis Jr. Award in 2011 for outstanding legal scholarship and policy work. He earned an economics degree from Virginia Tech and a law degree from the University of Texas.

SEC Enforcement Appoints Osman Nawaz to Senior Leadership Role

The SEC Enforcement transition will see Osman Nawaz become Principal Deputy Director after rejoining the agency last month. Nawaz previously served at the SEC between 2010 and 2024, holding roles including Assistant Regional Director and Chief of the Complex Financial Instruments Unit.

The commission said the appointment ensures leadership continuity as SEC Enforcement oversees evolving financial markets, including digital assets. Although the announcement did not reference specific cryptocurrency cases, Waldon’s departure comes as the SEC continues refining its regulatory approach toward the crypto industry.