Erica Williams Named SEC's Deputy Chief of Staff

The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that Erica Williams will become the agency’s Deputy Chief of Staff.

Ms. Williams has been a member of Chairman Schapiro’s staff since February 2011, primarily focusing on enforcement and regulatory issues. Prior to that, Ms. Williams served as assistant chief litigation counsel in the Enforcement Division’s trial unit for seven years, leading trial teams in a host of successful prosecutions.

“Erica is well-steeped in the securities laws and has a true grasp of the intricacies of the agency,” said Chairman Schapiro. “She also fully embraces the agency’s mission and I am thrilled that she is willing to take on this new responsibility.”

Ms. Williams said, “This is an incredible opportunity that allows me to continue protecting investors and ensuring our markets operate fairly and efficiently.”

Ms. Williams replaces James R. Burns, who will become the Deputy Director of the Division of Trading and Markets.

In 2009, Ms. Williams was selected by U.S. Senator Ted Kaufman as Federal Employee of the Week. Before coming to the SEC, Ms. Williams was a commercial litigator in private practice.

Ms. Williams received her law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia.