The PCAOB is a nonprofit corporation established by Congress to oversee the audits of public companies in order to protect investors and further the public interest in the preparation of informative, accurate, and independent audit reports. The PCAOB also oversees the audits of brokers and dealers registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including compliance reports filed pursuant to federal securities laws.

The PCAOB has four primary duties:
- Register public accounting firms that prepare audit reports for issuers, and SEC-registered brokers and dealers.
- Establish or adopt auditing and related attestation, quality control, ethics, and independence standards.
- Inspect registered public accounting firms' audits and quality control systems.
- Investigate and discipline registered public accounting firms and their associated persons for violations of specified laws, rules, or professional standards.

In support of our mission, we also conduct economic research and risk analysis, engage with our stakeholders and other domestic and international regulators, and manage a talented workforce and the technology and resources we need to perform our duties.

The SEC has oversight authority over the PCAOB, including the approval of the Board's rules, standards, and budget.

The PCAOB has approximately 800 staff members. We maintain our headquarters in Washington, D.C., and have 15 other offices or locations across the United States. As of December 31, 2021, in 83 jurisdictions across the globe, 1,709 public accounting firms were registered with the PCAOB.  

Government

Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB)

Erica Y. Williams

William Ryan

Tami Daughdrill

Martin C. Schmalz

Marc B. Dorfman

John Cook

John Abell

James Mcnamara

Hunter Jones

Holly Greaves

Barbara Vanich

The Inspections and Compliance team at the PCAOB is responsible for evaluating the quality of audits performed by registered public accounting firms. This team conducts inspections and assessments to ensure compliance with established auditing standards and regulations, helping to promote transparency and accountability in financial reporting. By identifying areas for improvement and addressing potential violations, the team plays a critical role in safeguarding investor interests and enhancing the overall integrity of the auditing profession.

Inspections and Compliance

Leadership Team

Human Resources and Talent Management

Inspections and Compliance

About

Team members

Other teams at Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB)

Leadership Team

Human Resources and Talent Management