The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has named Valerie Szczepanik, formerly head of the SEC’s Strategic Hub for Innovation and Financial Technology, as its first Chief AI Officer. In her new role, Szczepanik will lead the newly formed AI Task Force, signaling a strategic move by the SEC to embrace artificial intelligence as a tool for strengthening regulatory operations.

The AI Task Force will be responsible for centralizing the agency’s AI initiatives and fostering collaboration across departments. Szczepanik will oversee efforts to manage the AI lifecycle, streamline internal innovation, and ensure strong governance practices are in place. The initiative aims to break down silos and encourage cross-disciplinary work that removes barriers to progress while keeping regulatory priorities in focus.

According to SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins, the task force will equip SEC staff with AI-powered tools to enhance operational efficiency, support innovation, and improve decision-making accuracy. By embedding innovation into the agency’s culture, the SEC hopes to advance its mission of investor protection, market integrity, and capital formation.