Washington, D.C., Oct. 15, 2009 — The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that Barry Walters has been named Chief Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act Officer.
In this role, Mr. Walters is responsible for overseeing the Commission’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Privacy Act operations. He returns to the SEC, where he previously served as Freedom of Information/Privacy Act Officer from 2001 to 2002. Mr. Walters has held multiple senior positions dealing with FOIA and Privacy Act-related matters in government and the private sector.
“I am pleased to welcome Barry back to the SEC,” said SEC General Counsel and Senior Policy Director David Becker. “Given the great importance of making sure investors receive the information they need, and handling sensitive information in a secure manner, I am confident his experience in these areas will serve the agency well.”
Each year, the SEC receives approximately 10,000 FOIA requests, relating to almost every aspect of the Commission’s work.
“It is a pleasure for me to return to the Commission to serve in this important position,” Mr. Walters said. “On his first full day in office, President Obama issued a memorandum regarding the Freedom of Information Act emphasizing the importance of openness in government. My team and I will work hard to achieve the President’s goal by serving the needs of the investor community and the American public at large.”
Prior to returning to the SEC, Mr. Walters served as a Senior Privacy and Policy Advisor for several private sector firms. His prior government experience includes serving as a Senior Policy Advisor for the Transportation Security Administration, Deputy Director of the Office of Screening Coordination at the Department of Homeland Security, and as a civilian trial attorney for the U.S. Air Force.
Mr. Walters retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the U.S. Air Force Reserve after 25 years of active duty and reserve service, including the last 13 years as a Judge Advocate. Mr. Walters received his J.D. from New England School of Law in Boston, and his master’s and bachelor’s degrees from the University of South Carolina.
# # #
http://www.sec.gov/news/press/2009/2009-217.htm