"Intellectual property is among our most valuable, and most vulnerable, assets," Leahy said in a statement. "I believe Ms. Espinel's experience will prove valuable in this inter-agency effort, and I look forward to working with her and the administration to strengthen and enforce the laws protecting our intellectual property."

Espinel's appointment also drew predictable plaudits from some of the high-profile warriors in the intellectual property war, such as the Business Software Alliance. BSA President and CEO Robert Holleyman said of Espinel: "She will bring considerable firepower to the administration's efforts to promote IP policies that are modern, comprehensive and enforceable."

In 2005, Espinel was named to serve as the first Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Intellectual Property and Innovation.

The new position will be organized under the Office of Management and Budget.

Espinel now awaits confirmation by the Senate.