Md. Ataur Rahman Khan, an officer of the 18th batch of the Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS), began his career at the Ministry of Planning in 1999. During his long administrative career, he served in various important positions at the Information and Communication Technology Division, Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, IMED, and the Planning Commission. In addition, as the Managing Director of Bangladesh Data Center Company Limited (BDCCL), he led the development of the country's digital infrastructure. This officer, specially trained at home and abroad in government financial management, trade development, and policy-making, completed his bachelor's and master's degrees with first class in Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from the University of Dhaka, followed by higher degrees from Japan and the United Kingdom and the NDC course.

After joining, the newly appointed Secretary said that he would take all necessary measures to further accelerate the development of the country's shipping sector, increase the capacity of sea and river ports, ensure safe waterway management, and expand import-export trade activities.