Paul Hayeck appointed as Acting Director of CFTC’s Division of Enforcement

The announcement of Paul G. Hayeck as the Acting Director of the Division of Enforcement at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) was made by Acting Chairman Caroline D. Pham. Hayeck, who has been with the CFTC for 25 years and served as a deputy director in the Division of Enforcement since 2013, will now take on the role of Acting Director. He will also continue his responsibilities as the acting chief of the Division’s Complex Fraud Task Force.

Acting Chairman Pham expressed her confidence in Hayeck’s leadership abilities, citing his extensive experience and commitment to integrity and fairness. She highlighted his achievements as the Acting Chief of the Complex Fraud Task Force and his overall contributions to the CFTC. In her statement, she emphasized the importance of Hayeck’s role in upholding the mission of the CFTC to safeguard markets, hold wrongdoers accountable, and support victims.

In response to his appointment, Hayeck expressed gratitude to Acting Chairman Pham for entrusting him with the Division’s leadership. He emphasized the significance of focusing resources and efforts on the core mission of preventing fraud, manipulation, and abuse within the markets.

Throughout his career, Hayeck has represented the CFTC in various federal courts, handling cases involving Commodity Exchange Act violations such as market manipulation and complex fraud, particularly in energy trading cases. Notable among his past cases is the litigation team he led in the significant CFTC v. Parnon Energy Inc., et al. case, which yielded a favorable outcome for the CFTC on jurisdictional grounds.

Before joining the CFTC, Hayeck was a partner at a law firm in Boston, where he concentrated on commercial litigation. He also served as litigation counsel for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, appearing in federal and state courts regularly. Hayeck holds an LL.M. in banking law and a J.D. from Boston University School of Law. He completed his undergraduate studies at the College of the Holy Cross, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics.

Paul G. Hayeck’s appointment as the Acting Director of the Division of Enforcement at the CFTC marks a significant milestone in his career, reflecting his dedication to upholding the integrity of markets and combating fraudulent activities. His extensive experience and leadership qualities position him well to lead the Division effectively in fulfilling its core mission.