The National Association of Securities Delears today announced the immediate promotion of James Shorris from his position as senior vice president and deputy head of enforcement to executive vice president and head of enforcement.

Shorris replaces Barry Goldsmith, who is leaving NASD after nearly 10 years to return to private practice. Since joining NASD in November 2003, Shorris has been responsible for the operational management of the NASD’s enforcement department, supervising a staff of more than 200, developing and implementing enforcement policy and overseeing investigations and litigation.

Prior to joining NASD, Shorris practiced securities law at several law firms, including Bingham McCutchen LLP and Choate, Hall & Stewart in Boston and at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius in New York. He has also worked for two securities firms – as vp, counsel and chief compliance officer for Allmerica Financial Corporation, and as senior vp and deputy general counsel for Tucker Anthony Inc. in Boston. Shorris also served as an assistant district attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office for five years.

“Jim Shorris’s rich blend of experience – as a regulator, as a firm executive and as a private practitioner – gives him a deep understanding of the securities laws and the industry. Jim will provide strong and balanced leadership to NASD’s enforcement department,” said NASD vice chairman Mary Schapiro, in a news release.

“I am very grateful for this tremendous privilege and opportunity to work with a group of talented professionals who are so dedicated to their jobs protecting investors,” Shorris said.