Mauricio Melara currently serves as the Acting Director of the Office of International Affairs at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). In this role, he oversees a team of legal experts and professionals who provide guidance on cross-border matters and manage international collaborations. His responsibilities include coordinating efforts in various international forums and advising on global financial stability issues. Melara has been with the CFTC since 2012, contributing significantly to the agency’s international engagement. Prior to joining the CFTC, he had extensive experience in both legal and financial sectors, including positions at prominent law firms and a trading officer role at a major financial institution.
Directing Cross-Border Initiatives and International Engagement
Melara's leadership at the CFTC focuses on addressing complex international challenges that affect the commodities futures market. He leads a team that provides strategic advice on cross-border regulations and coordinates the agency’s participation in key international organizations. This work is crucial for ensuring that the CFTC remains aligned with global regulatory standards and can effectively address international developments impacting its mission.
Under Melara’s direction, the Office of International Affairs plays a pivotal role in representing the CFTC in various global forums such as the International Organization of Securities Commissions and the Committee on Payments and Market Infrastructures. The office also advises the Chairman and Commission on matters related to the Financial Stability Board. By fostering strong international partnerships and facilitating dialogue, Melara ensures that the CFTC can navigate the complexities of global markets and maintain its commitment to financial stability. His expertise in international affairs and foreign legal systems enables the CFTC to respond proactively to cross-border issues and emerging trends in the financial sector.
A Career Shaped by Legal and Financial Expertise
Melara brings a wealth of experience from both the legal and financial industries to his current role. Since joining the CFTC in 2012, he has provided invaluable insights into international affairs and foreign regulatory systems. His background includes serving as Special Counsel in the Division of Market Oversight, where he advised on trading facility requirements and standards. This diverse experience has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory landscape and the ability to address multifaceted challenges.
Prior to his tenure at the CFTC, Melara held significant roles in leading law firms such as Winston & Strawn LLP and Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP, where he specialized in financial and regulatory matters. Earlier in his career, he worked as a trading officer at Sumitomo Trust & Banking Co., gaining firsthand experience in the financial markets. Melara’s educational background includes a Juris Doctor from Fordham University School of Law and a Bachelor of Science from New York University Stern School of Business. His academic and professional journey has prepared him well for the demanding responsibilities of his current position, making him an indispensable asset to the CFTC’s international efforts.