SEC Names Ahmed Abonamah as Director of Office of Credit Ratings

​(Source: LinkedIn)

The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced yesterday it has promoted its long-time employee Ahmed Abonamah to Director of its Office of Credit Ratings, where Abonamah has served as Acting Director since October 2020.

The Office of Credit Ratings is responsible for oversight of nationally recognized statistical rating organizations (NRSROs). The office conducts examinations of NRSROs, develops and administers rules affecting NRSROs, and works to ensure that credit ratings are not unduly influenced by conflicts of interest and that NRSROs provide greater transparency and disclosure to investors.

Abonamah joined the US financial regulator in 2016. Prior to the Office of Credit Ratings, he served in various positions within the SEC’s Office of Municipal Securities, including as Deputy Director. Previously, he has been a Public and Infrastructure Finance Associate at Squire Patton Boggs (US) LLP for 4 years.

“Ahmed already has proven to be a qualified and thoughtful leader of the Office of Credit Ratings,” said SEC Chair Gary Gensler. “Credit rating organizations play central roles in our financial system, and oversight is critical to maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets. I thank Ahmed for taking on this responsibility and look forward to our continued work together.”

Shortly before, Fazzaco reported that SEC has named Nicole Creola Kelly​ as Chief of the SEC's Office of the Whistleblower.