Sean M. Curran assumed office as the 28th Director of the U.S. Secret Service on January 22, 2025, marking a significant chapter in his distinguished law enforcement career and for the agency itself. As the Head Of The Secret Service, Director Curran is now at the helm of an agency renowned for its dual mission: safeguarding the nation’s leaders and protecting the financial infrastructure of the United States. In this pivotal role, he is responsible for the seamless integration of the Secret Service’s investigative and protective operations, leading a highly skilled team of over 8,200 professionals, including Special Agents, Uniformed Division Officers, Technical Law Enforcement Officers, and Mission Support staff.
A Career Forged in Complex Operations and Presidential Protection
Director Curran’s 23-year trajectory in law enforcement is characterized by exceptional leadership and a proven track record of success in high-stakes environments. His expertise is particularly evident in the realm of operational security planning for National Special Security Events, some of the most intricate and demanding undertakings for the Secret Service. Notably, Curran’s innovative protective methodologies were successfully implemented during the extensive 2024 Presidential Campaign, demonstrating his ability to adapt and enhance security protocols in dynamic situations. His prior experience includes the meticulous oversight of financial resources, personnel management, and logistical coordination for the 2016 Presidential Debates, events that demanded the synchronization of thousands of campaign engagements, collaboration across federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, and the strategic management of a substantial multi-million dollar budget and over 400 Special Agents.
From Special Agent to Leading the Donald Trump Detail
Prior to his appointment as Director, a testament to his capabilities was Curran’s establishment and leadership as the Special Agent in Charge of the Donald Trump Detail. In this highly visible role, he was entrusted with the comprehensive multi-state physical protection strategy for the 45th President. This position required decisive executive action, innovative problem-solving, adaptability to rapidly changing circumstances, and resourceful allocation of assets to ensure unwavering security.
Curran’s journey with the Secret Service began in September 2001, when he joined as a Special Agent in the Newark Field Office. His initial responsibilities encompassed a broad spectrum of critical functions, including protective operations, intelligence gathering, investigative work, recruitment initiatives, and providing essential logistical support within the district.
Ascending Through Protective Divisions
Between 2008 and 2013, Curran served in the Presidential Protective Division within the Office of Protective Operations. This assignment placed him directly at the forefront of safeguarding the President of the United States and the First Family, both at the White House and during domestic and international travel. This period was crucial in honing his skills for future leadership roles, such as his appointment as Assistant to the Special Agent in Charge of the Dignitary Protective Division (2014-2016) and his subsequent assignment to the Washington Field Office (2016-2018). In Washington, he was responsible for managing rapid response teams to critical incidents across Washington, D.C., and the broader National Capital Region, demonstrating his capacity to handle high-pressure situations and lead effectively in crisis scenarios.
In 2018, Curran’s career advanced further with his promotion to Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Presidential Protective Division. This elevated role brought with it direct oversight of security for multiple protectees and the critical responsibility of continually reviewing, analyzing, and refining security plans for the President’s various residences. Concurrent with these demanding responsibilities, Curran also completed the Secret Service’s Senior Executive Service Candidate Development Program, further enhancing his leadership acumen through the Key Executive Leadership Certificate Program from American University.
Education and Commitment to Service
Director Curran’s commitment to professional development is underscored by his academic achievements. He holds a Master’s degree in Human Resources Training and Development from Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Stockton University in Galloway Township, New Jersey. These academic foundations complement his extensive field experience, providing him with a well-rounded perspective as he undertakes his responsibilities as head of the secret service.
