Public Affairs Director Christi Harlan to Leave PCAOB

Christi Harlan, public affairs director for the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board since April 2003, has informed the Board that she intends to leave the PCAOB.

"I joined the PCAOB to be part of a start-up venture with a clear mandate for public service," Ms. Harlan said. "Although I am leaving to seek a new venture – or adventure – in public service, I know I may never again work with a group as talented and dedicated as my colleagues at the PCAOB. They have earned and deserve the trust of investors and the public."

Ms. Harlan, 49, came to the PCAOB from the Securities and Exchange Commission, where she served as public affairs director from January 2002 until April 2003. Prior to her SEC service, Ms. Harlan was director of external affairs at the Federal Emergency Management Agency and communications director for the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs from 1999 to 2001.

"Christi was one of the earliest PCAOB staff members, and she led our efforts to maintain a positive public image for the PCAOB," said PCAOB Chairman Mark Olson. "We will miss her dedication and talent."

Prior to joining the Senate Banking Committee, Ms. Harlan spent 20 years as a reporter and editor, including six years at The Wall Street Journal. She holds a Masters of Studies in Law degree from Yale Law School and a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism and English from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas.