Michael Novakovic
About Michael Novakovic
Michael Novakovic serves as the Assistant Regional Director in the Division of Enforcement at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, where he manages a team focused on investigating federal securities law violations. He has an extensive background in military and legal fields, having held various positions in the U.S. Air Force and law firms, and he actively engages in educational outreach on securities law.
Work at U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
Michael Novakovic has served at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in various capacities since 1994. He began as a Staff Attorney in the Division of Enforcement, where he worked for seven years. He then advanced to Branch Chief in the Division of Enforcement from 2001 to 2012. Since 2010, he has held the position of Assistant Regional Director, overseeing a team of senior accountants and attorneys. His role involves investigating potential violations of federal securities laws and leading the Office’s Banking Secrecy Act Program. He also coordinates investigations with the SEC's Office of the Whistleblower.
Education and Expertise
Michael Novakovic holds a Bachelor of Science in Military History from the United States Air Force Academy, where he studied from 1981 to 1985. He also earned a Master's degree in Business Administration and Management from Troy University in 1988. He obtained his Doctor of Law (JD) from Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law in 1993. His educational background supports his expertise in federal securities law, which he frequently shares as a guest lecturer at various universities and professional organizations.
Background in the United States Air Force
Michael Novakovic has a significant background in the United States Air Force, where he served in various roles from 1985 to 1990. He began as an Analyst at the Pentagon for three months before becoming the Director of Operations in Italy. He later served as Branch Chief in the Baltimore/Washington D.C. Metropolitan Area for one year. Additionally, he held positions in the US Air Force Reserve, including Deputy Senior Intelligence Officer and Senior Intelligence Officer, contributing to his extensive experience in intelligence and operations.
Professional Experience at Law Firms
Before his long tenure at the SEC, Michael Novakovic worked as an Associate at Pepper Hamilton LLP for one year in Philadelphia, PA, from 1993 to 1994. His experience in a law firm setting provided him with a foundation in legal practice that complements his work in federal law enforcement. This background has been instrumental in his role at the SEC, where he applies his legal knowledge to enforcement actions.
Community Engagement and Outreach
Michael Novakovic actively participates in community engagement through investor outreach and educational events aimed at both the general public and professional organizations. He has been a member of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee in the Philadelphia Regional Office since its inception. His efforts in these areas reflect his commitment to promoting understanding of federal securities laws and fostering an inclusive environment within the SEC.