Paul Atkins

At a glance

Paul Atkins has a documented career in corporate law, securities regulation, and regulatory consulting. SEC sources record his earlier commission service and investor-education work, as well as the founding of Patomak Global Partners before his return to the agency.

Summary sources: [1] [2]

Career and documented accomplishments

• The SEC's February 2026 biographical introduction records Atkins' earlier commission service from 2002 to 2008 and his founding of consulting firm Patomak Global Partners in 2009. [1]
• It describes earlier corporate-law work on securities offerings and mergers, including time in a Paris office, and lists degrees from Wofford College and Vanderbilt Law School. [1]
• The SEC's 2008 release credits Atkins with helping establish its Microcap Fraud Working Group and conducting investor-education town halls for military personnel and other audiences. [2]
• That historical release records staff service to SEC chairs Richard Breeden and Arthur Levitt from 1990 to 1994, ultimately as chief of staff and counselor. [2]

Role and nomination context

• The SEC's February 18, 2026 introduction reports Atkins' April 21, 2025 swearing-in as its thirty-fourth chair. Chair appointment and commission membership are related but distinct from the individual Senate nomination records grouped here. [1]

Sources and review date

Career and role sources reviewed Oct 14, 2026. These sources may describe developments beyond the nomination snapshot; each nomination entry retains its recorded date and outcome.

1. SEC-published Paul Atkins biographical introduction, February 18, 2026

   U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Reviewed Oct 14, 2026.

2. Commissioner Atkins departure announcement and career account, May 5, 2008

   U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Reviewed Oct 14, 2026.