The Federal Reserve Board has announced the appointment of Michael E. Horowitz as the new leader of its Office of Inspector General (OIG), effective June 30, 2025. Horowitz’s role extends to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), as the OIG is tasked with ensuring the efficiency and integrity of both agencies.
Horowitz succeeds Mark Bialek, who recently retired after an impressive tenure of nearly 14 years as inspector general. His extensive experience spans over 35 years, with a notable reputation in law, public administration, and investigation. Prior to this appointment, Horowitz served as the inspector general for the Department of Justice since April 2012, overseeing critical aspects of law enforcement and federal operations.
During his tenure at the Department of Justice, Horowitz led a committee comprising 21 federal inspectors general, which monitored the disbursement of an unprecedented $5 trillion in pandemic relief funding. His leadership roles also include chairing the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency and membership on the U.S. Sentencing Commission.
Horowitz’s career began in the Southern District of New York, where he served as an assistant U.S. attorney, ultimately leading the public corruption unit. He holds a Juris Doctor degree from Harvard Law School and a Bachelor of Arts from Brandeis University.
The Office of Inspector General, established by Congress, operates as an independent oversight authority for the Federal Reserve Board and the CFPB under the Inspector General Act of 1978. The OIG is responsible for conducting audits, evaluations, and investigations to prevent and detect waste, fraud, and abuse within these vital financial institutions.
Horowitz’s appointment is expected to enhance the oversight function of the Federal Reserve and the CFPB, promoting accountability and integrity within these agencies that play critical roles in the U.S. financial system.
As he steps into this prominent position, industry experts and stakeholders will be closely watching how Horowitz applies his considerable expertise to advance the mission of the OIG.
