Princeton prof. Edward Felten named FTC’s first chief technologist

“Ed is extraordinarily respected in the technology community, and his background and knowledge make him an outstanding choice to serve as the agency’s first Chief Technologist,” Leibowitz said. “He’s going to add unparalleled expertise on high-technology markets and computer security.”

Leibowitz also announced that Eileen Harrington has been named the FTC’s executive director after a 15-month stint as chief operating officer at the Small Business Administration. Harrington previously spent 25 years at the FTC, starting as a staff attorney and working her way through the Bureau of Consumer Protection to become acting director.

Harrington is perhaps best known for leading the team that created the National Do Not Call Registry, for which she won the Service to America Medal.

This is a very happy homecoming,” Leibowitz said. “Eileen has made an invaluable contribution to the FTC in the past, and her strong management skills, enthusiasm, and creativity will once again be put to use for the betterment of the agency and for American consumers. We are delighted to have her back.”