SEC Names Kevin Muhlendorf New Inspector General

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced that Kevin Muhlendorf will take over as the new Inspector General, effective July 28. This appointment comes as the SEC navigates through heightened scrutiny and regulatory challenges. Muhlendorf, who previously served as a lawyer at the SEC and the Department of Justice, brings a robust background in law enforcement and regulatory compliance to his new role. His extensive experience includes nine years as a partner at the Washington, D.C. law firm Wiley Rein LLP, where he specialized in white-collar criminal defense and government investigation matters in both criminal and civil securities enforcement cases.

Muhlendorf's tenure at Wiley Rein LLP was marked by his leadership in sensitive internal investigations and his provision of compliance advice to clients. From 2023 to 2024, he was seconded to serve as the Acting Inspector General of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). In this capacity, he led a team of over thirty auditors and special investigators, conducting inquiries and publishing financial and performance audit reports. Additionally, he designed and implemented a whistleblower reward pilot program, demonstrating his commitment to transparency and accountability.

As the new Inspector General, Muhlendorf will be responsible for conducting independent audits and investigations to ensure the integrity and efficiency of the SEC's operations. His appointment underscores the SEC's dedication to maintaining high standards of accountability and transparency within the agency. Acting Inspector General Katherine Reilly will return to her position as Deputy Inspector General following Muhlendorf's appointment. Muhlendorf's legal expertise and familiarity with the SEC's operations are expected to bolster the agency's ability to detect and address potential misconduct, thereby enhancing investor confidence in the financial markets.