Richard R. Best, former Director of the SEC’s Division of Examinations from March 2022 to September 2024, passed away on March 12, 2025. As Director, he led the National Examination Program, which operates across 10 regional offices and headquarters. During his tenure, Richard championed the Division’s Four Pillars mission to prevent fraud, promote compliance, monitor risk, and inform policy. Richard also served as the Regional Director of the SEC’s offices in Salt Lake City, Atlanta, and New York.
Richard graciously participated in two panels to help the Society share and preserve SEC history: In the 2022 the Division of Examinations Program and in 2020, the Regional Directors Roundtable. Connect to them below:
Division of Examinations Program
Regional Directors Roundtable
Also check out this archive: Article – Georgia State Law Hosts Investor Town Hall with SEC Commissioners.