• Sam Waldon, Principal Deputy Director of the Division of Enforcement, will depart the SEC on July 31, 2026.
  • Waldon served the agency for more than 14 years.
  • Osman Nawaz, who rejoined the SEC last month, will take over as Principal Deputy Director.
  • The announcement was made in press release number 2026-68, dated July 22, 2026.

Waldon's Departure Announced in SEC Press Release

The Securities and Exchange Commission disclosed in press release number 2026-68, dated July 22, 2026, that Sam Waldon, Principal Deputy Director of the Division of Enforcement, will leave the agency effective July 31, 2026.

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SEC's Sam Waldon to Depart, Osman Nawaz Named Deputy

Waldon joined the SEC as a staff attorney and spent more than 14 years with the agency. He served as Chief Counsel of the Division of Enforcement from 2022 through 2024, and was Acting Deputy Director of Enforcement from October 2024 to January 2025. He also served as Acting Director of Enforcement on two occasions in 2025 and 2026.

Waldon holds a bachelor's degree in economics from Virginia Tech and a law degree from the University of Texas School of Law. In 2011, he received the Philip A. Loomis, Jr. Award.

Statements From SEC Leadership

“Sam's contributions to the SEC and the Division of Enforcement for over a decade are well documented and moreover they are reflected in the many key leadership roles he has taken on during his tenure.”

Paul S. Atkins, SEC Chairman

“His work ethic and steadfast commitment to the Division of Enforcement have been invaluable and his mentorship to countless colleagues will be sorely missed.”

David Woodcock, SEC Director of Enforcement

“I will be forever grateful to Chairman Atkins and Commissioners Peirce and Uyeda for the opportunity to work under their leadership and for their commitment to the agency and its mission.”

Sam Waldon

Osman Nawaz to Take Over as Principal Deputy Director

Osman Nawaz has been named to succeed Waldon as Principal Deputy Director of the Division of Enforcement. Nawaz rejoined the SEC last month, after previously serving at the agency from 2010 to 2024.

  • Staff attorney
  • Assistant Regional Director
  • Chief of the Complex Financial Instruments Unit