Mary Sjoquist Named PCAOB Director of Communications

Public Company Accounting Oversight Board Chairman Mark W. Olson announced today that Mary M. Sjoquist has been named Director of the Office of Communications.

In her new position, Ms. Sjoquist will be responsible for implementing the communications objectives established by the Board in its Strategic Plan. These include expanding the Board’s outreach on key issues to investors and other interested parties. She also will oversee PCAOB internal communications and publications.

Ms. Sjoquist joined the PCAOB in 2003 as Special Counsel to Board Member Bill Gradison. During her tenure, she worked directly with Board members and other staff on policy issues related to the Board's activities. She also has been active in the PCAOB’s outreach efforts to investor groups, auditors, issuers, academics, and others.

"We are fortunate to have someone of Mary's caliber to head this office,” said PCAOB Chairman Mark W. Olson. “Her knowledge of Board programs, experience in securities law, and active role in our outreach efforts will enhance the PCAOB’s internal and external communications programs.”

Prior to her service at the PCAOB, Ms. Sjoquist spent more than 25 years as a securities lawyer. She worked in the Division of Corporation Finance at the Securities and Exchange Commission and, later, was a partner and leader of the Business Practice group at Patton Boggs LLP, in Washington, DC.

"I have been honored to serve the Board as Special Counsel to Board Member Bill Gradison,” said Ms. Sjoquist. "I look forward to continuing to work with the Board and staff of the PCAOB in my new capacity."

Under Ms. Sjoquist’s leadership, the Office of Communications will house both internal and external relations, replacing the former Office of External Relations.