SEC Executive Director Diego Ruiz to Leave Agency

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2011-48

Washington, D.C., Feb. 18, 2011 — The Securities and Exchange Commission announced today that its Executive Director, Diego Tomás Ruiz, intends to leave the agency to return to the private sector.

Mr. Ruiz has served as the SEC's Executive Director since August 2006, and in that capacity has overseen the agency's strategic planning, management policies and procedures, financial management, human resources and employee relations, and contracting and procurement activities. During his tenure he has led the agency's capital planning, financial management and human capital committees.

"Diego has been a steady hand at the Commission over the last several years, and I have greatly valued his commitment and public service," said SEC Chairman Mary L. Schapiro. "He has provided guidance and counsel through challenging times at the agency and in the financial industry."

Mr. Ruiz added, "It has been a real honor and privilege to serve under Chairman Schapiro's strong leadership, and in the company of the Commission's highly motivated and talented staff. The job of safeguarding the nation's financial markets is a high calling, and I am deeply grateful to the SEC's dedicated men and women for their tireless efforts, often under extraordinary pressure, on behalf of America's investors."

Prior to joining the SEC in 2006, Mr. Ruiz served as deputy chief for strategy and policy at the Federal Communications Commission. He previously served for 10 years as a senior executive for Univision Communications Inc., the Spanish-language media and entertainment conglomerate, heading up various television and internet business units. Mr. Ruiz is a graduate of Harvard Business School, where he earned an MBA degree, and the University of Virginia, from which he earned a BA in History and English Literature.