The Securities and Exchange Commission announced today that James L. Eastman has been named Chief Counsel and Associate Director in the Division of Trading and Markets.
Erik Sirri, Director of the Division of Trading and Markets, said, "We're eagerly anticipating working with Jim in his new role as Chief Counsel. His keen intellect, breadth of experience, and consensus-building style will be invaluable to us as we seek innovative approaches to protecting investors and keeping our markets vibrant and healthy in these critical times."
The Division of Trading and Markets Office of Chief Counsel renders legal advice and interpretations on provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and related Commission rules. The Office of Chief Counsel also prepares and analyzes legislation that would amend or impact the Act and serves as liaison to Congressional committees and subcommittees as well as other federal and state government agencies.
Mr. Eastman said, "I am delighted to be joining the distinguished staff of the Office of Chief Counsel for whom I have deep respect and admiration. I am looking forward to serving in the Division at a time when our nation's investors and markets face unprecedented change and challenges as well as significant opportunities."
Mr. Eastman has served as a counsel to SEC Chairman Christopher Cox since 2007, advising him on legal and policy issues arising in the Trading and Markets and Enforcement areas. From 2004 to 2007, Mr. Eastman served as an Assistant General Counsel at FINRA, where he assisted in advising FINRA's Board and senior management on policy responses to emerging regulatory issues, and he prepared rules and provided interpretive advice on a range of issues. Mr. Eastman previously was an Associate for four years in Schiff Hardin's Securities and Futures Regulation Group, and he served for three years at the SEC, first as Senior Counsel in the SEC's Office of the General Counsel and then for two years as counsel to the late Commissioner Paul Carey. Mr. Eastman began his legal career at Covington & Burling.
Mr. Eastman earned his J.D., cum laude, from Harvard Law School in 1995 where he was an Earl Warren Legal Training Scholar and served as a Teaching Fellow in Harvard University's introductory economics program. He graduated from the University of Maine in 1992, with a B.A. in Economics, Highest Honors, Highest Distinction.
Mr. Eastman's appointment will be effective Oct. 13, 2008.
