The Securities and Exchange Commission has selected a seasoned white-collar defense attorney and former agency veteran to head its enforcement division following the unexpected departure of its previous director last month, according to three sources with knowledge of the decision.
David Woodcock, who works as a partner at the Dallas office of Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher, will take over the role previously held by Margaret Ryan. Ryan stepped down after serving only six months in the position, reportedly due to disagreements with SEC leadership regarding the direction of enforcement activities.
Woodcock brings extensive experience in securities law and previously served as director of the SEC’s Fort Worth regional office from 2011 through 2015. During his tenure there, he established a specialized task force focused on identifying and investigating accounting fraud and financial reporting violations, according to his professional profiles.
Both Woodcock and SEC representatives have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the appointment.
