Mr. Atkins, a former commissioner of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission from 2002-2008, is currently the chief executive of Patomak Global Partners, a Washington-based consultancy that advises clients on financial regulatory compliance, risk and strategic matters. During his time at the SEC, he developed a reputation as a leading advocate for intelligent solutions to securities industry issues affecting markets and investors.

BATS Global Markets President and CEO Joe Ratterman said "As a longtime admirer of Paul's approach to regulation, I am pleased that he has agreed to join our organization as the non-executive chairman of the BATS Global Markets board of directors. His unique experience and perspectives on the industry make him a great fit for the board of our growing company."

Mr. Atkins added, "Joe has built a strong company that is a market leader in the United States and Europe. I have great respect for his effective leadership of BATS during the past five years and I look forward to working with him as he continues to lead the company as president and CEO."

A native of North Carolina, Mr. Atkins also served as a member of the Congressional Oversight Panel for TARP from 2009-2010. He began his professional career as a securities lawyer in New York and Paris, France, and was later a partner at a Big Four accounting firm, where he developed a national regulatory compliance practice serving securities and investment management firms.

Earlier this year, as part of an enhanced corporate governance structure, BATS Global Markets announced that the board would separate the roles of chairman and CEO, dual roles which Mr. Ratterman had held since June 2007.