On January 20, 2016, the U.S. Department of State, Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (“DDTC”) announced the elevation of Lisa Aguirre to the position of Managing Director. Although DDTC has used the title of Managing Director in the past, this new role has different responsibilities from those held by previous Managing Directors.

As Managing Director, Ms. Aguirre will serve as deputy to the Deputy Assistant Secretary (“DAS”), acting when the DAS is unavailable, and dividing the DDTC front office responsibilities with the DAS. Prior to this appointment, Ms. Aguirre most recently served as Director of the Office of Defense Trade Controls Management.  DAS Brian Nilsson has made an excellent and outstanding choice in his selection of Ms. Aguirre.

In light of emerging threats to U.S. national security, it is particularly important to have a judicious decision maker with a strong background in arms export controls such as Ms. Aguirre in such a critical position at DDTC. Ms. Aguirre has deep experience and knowledge in the AECA, the ITAR, and the role various law enforcement agencies and the intelligence community play in export controls.  She understands well the important role of DDTC’s enforcement function in safeguarding the superiority of U.S. military technology, particularly with regard to constant efforts by the Chinese, Russian, and Iranian governments to obtain U.S. military technology.  With the promotion of Ms. Aguirre and the October 2015 appointment of a new Deputy Assistant Secretary, DDTC has turned a corner.  Under such professional and informed leadership, DDTC undoubtedly will serve the People effectively, independently, and wisely.