#USA #New York #Jennifer Duggins #Optima Partners #SEC Private Funds

Jennifer A. Duggins: A New Chapter with Optima Partners

On May 27, 2025, Jennifer A. Duggins transitioned into a pivotal role at Optima Partners as a Partner. Having accumulated over 20 years of regulatory and compliance expertise, Duggins has a rich history within both public and private sectors that will be invaluable to her new firm.

A Remarkable Career Path

Before joining Optima Partners, Duggins was well known for her position as Co-Head of the Private Funds Unit within the SEC's Division of Examinations from July 2015 to April 2025. During her tenure, she played an instrumental role in setting the standards for the SEC’s supervision of private fund advisors and ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks. This experience has not only honed her skills in regulation but positioned her as an authority in the area, making her one of the most sought-after experts in the industry.

Before her influential role at the SEC, Duggins held senior positions within high-profile organizations. Notably, she served as the Director in Regulatory Risk Consulting at KPMG and was the Chief Compliance Officer at Chilton Investment Company. Furthermore, she worked as the Vice President of Legal and Compliance at Andor Capital Management, showcasing a well-rounded set of skills that blend regulatory oversight with practical compliance experience.

Academic Contribution

In addition to her professional achievements, Duggins also contributes to the academic field as an Adjunct Professor at Fordham Law School. There, she lectures within the MSL Compliance Program, sharing her extensive knowledge on compliance and regulatory frameworks with the next generation of legal minds. Her dual role as both an educator and consultant further enriches her insights and perspectives, which she brings to her clients.

Excitement at Optima Partners

Michael Timotheou, President and Chief Operating Officer of Optima Partners, expressed enthusiasm about Duggins joining the team, stating, “Jennifer's depth of experience in both regulatory and advisory roles makes her an exceptional addition to the Optima team.” Her addition complements a robust team comprised of former SEC personnel, further strengthening the firm's capability to offer specialized insights in navigating complex regulatory environments.

As Optima Partners continues to grow, the firm is focused on providing unparalleled support to its clients, with Duggins at the helm of shaping strategies to meet regulatory challenges. “We are thrilled to have Jennifer bring her unmatched SEC insights and knowledge to our clients,” Mr. Timotheou added. Her contributions are expected to be significant in heading forward as firms face an increasingly intricate regulatory landscape.

The firm encourages those keen on their consulting services to reach out to Hap Oakley, Optima’s Global Head of Business Development, to learn more about how the firm is poised to assist clients in overcoming regulatory hurdles with confidence and precision.

Optima Partners invites a variety of sectors to benefit from Duggins’ expertise and commitment to excellence.

This extraordinary appointment marks a new chapter for both Jennifer A. Duggins and Optima Partners, setting the stage for their joint journey toward navigating the complexities of the financial landscape with innovation and compliance at the forefront.