Sean M. Curran assumed the critical role of Director of the U.S. Secret Service on January 22, 2025, marking him as the 28th individual to hold this prestigious position. As the Secret Service Head, Mr. Curran is at the helm of an agency with a dual mission: safeguarding the nation’s leaders and upholding the integrity of the financial system. In his capacity as Director, he bears the responsibility for the seamless integration of these investigative and protective operations, guiding a highly skilled and diverse workforce exceeding 8,200 professionals. This team includes Special Agents, Uniformed Division Officers, Technical Law Enforcement Officers, and essential Mission Support personnel, all dedicated to the agency’s vital objectives.
Mr. Curran’s distinguished 23-year career in law enforcement is characterized by exceptional leadership and a consistent record of achieving significant results. His expertise is particularly evident in the realm of operational security, where he has masterfully directed and led security plans for some of the most intricate National Special Security Events in the Secret Service’s history. Notably, his innovative approach to protective methodologies was successfully implemented throughout the 2024 Presidential Campaign, ensuring the safety and security of all involved. Furthermore, his meticulous oversight of financial resources, human capital management, and logistical coordination was crucial to the flawless execution of the 2016 Presidential Debates. Events of this scale demand the orchestration of countless campaign visits, robust collaboration with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, and the strategic management of a multi-million dollar budget, along with a team of over 400 Special Agents. Mr. Curran has consistently demonstrated his ability to navigate these complex challenges with expertise and precision.
Prior to his appointment as Director, the secret service head role, Mr. Curran served as the Special Agent in Charge of the Donald Trump Detail. In this highly demanding position, he was responsible for strategically directing the multi-state physical protection portfolio for the 45th President. This dynamic environment necessitated rapid executive decision-making, innovative problem-solving, adaptability, and resourceful allocation of resources. His success in this role further solidified his reputation as a capable and dependable leader within the Secret Service.
Mr. Curran’s journey with the Secret Service began in September 2001, when he joined as a Special Agent in the Newark Field Office. From the outset of his career, he engaged in a broad spectrum of critical tasks, including protection, intelligence gathering, conducting investigations, recruitment initiatives, and providing essential logistical support within the district. This foundational experience in the Newark Field Office provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the agency’s multifaceted operations.
Between 2008 and 2013, Mr. Curran’s career advanced as he was assigned to the Presidential Protective Division within the Office of Protective Operations. During this pivotal period, he was entrusted with the paramount responsibility of providing direct physical protection to the President of the United States and the First Family. His duties extended to safeguarding the President at the White House and during both domestic and international travel. This assignment significantly honed his protective skills and deepened his understanding of the unique security challenges associated with presidential protection, preparing him for future leadership roles.
Continuing his upward trajectory, Mr. Curran served as the Assistant to the Special Agent in Charge of the Dignitary Protective Division from 2014 to 2016. Following this, he transitioned to the Washington Field Office (2016-2018), where he took charge of managing response teams for critical incidents across Washington, D.C., and the broader National Capital Region. These roles further expanded his operational expertise and leadership capabilities within high-pressure environments.
In 2018, Mr. Curran was promoted to Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Presidential Protective Division. In this elevated role, his responsibilities broadened to include direct oversight and accountability for the protection of multiple high-profile individuals. He was also tasked with the critical responsibility of reviewing, analyzing, and continuously enhancing security plans for the President’s various residences. Concurrent with these demanding responsibilities, Mr. Curran completed the Secret Service’s Senior Executive Service Candidate Development Program, further enhancing his leadership and management acumen. He also earned a Key Executive Leadership Certificate Program from American University, underscoring his commitment to professional development and excellence in leadership.
Mr. Curran’s academic achievements include 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 educational foundations complement his extensive practical experience, equipping him with a well-rounded skillset to effectively lead the U.S. Secret Service as its secret service head. His career trajectory, marked by consistent advancement and proven success in diverse roles, demonstrates his readiness and capability to guide the agency into the future, ensuring the safety of those under its protection and the integrity of the nation’s financial systems.
