Crowell & Moring Welcomes New Privacy Experts
Crowell & Moring's Privacy & Cybersecurity Group has announced the addition of two prominent in-house counsel, bolstering their team with new expertise. Rita Heimes, former general counsel for the International Association of Privacy Professionals, and Justin B. Weiss, previously the associate general counsel at Naspers, will join the firm as senior counsel.
Enhancing Privacy Regulations and Client Services
This strategic move is designed to enhance Crowell's capabilities in handling privacy and digital regulation. Both Heimes and Weiss have extensive backgrounds in the complex fields of data privacy, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence, which are increasingly vital in today’s technology-driven world.
Jeffrey Poston, co-chair of the Privacy and Cybersecurity Group, shared, "Rita and Justin are highly respected leaders in the privacy field. Their combined experiences provide clients with a strategic outlook on the evolving global privacy landscape, helping navigate intricate digital regulatory matters. Clients will benefit from their unique insights forged through their distinguished career paths."
The Journey of Rita Heimes
Heimes brings a wealth of knowledge from her tenure at IAPP, where she not only served as the general counsel but also as the chief privacy officer. In her multifaceted role, she was tasked with global legal and regulatory compliance, while also managing liability risks, particularly those involved with data. Aside from her legal career, she is actively engaged in academia as a senior privacy fellow and adjunct law professor at the University of Maine School of Law.
Her Impact on Privacy Law
With over 30 years of experience, Heimes has dedicated her career to navigating technology and data transactions, as well as ensuring compliance with evolving digital regulations. Her commitment to the field has influenced numerous corporate clients and organizations in aligning with best practices in data governance.
Introducing Justin B. Weiss
Weiss joins Crowell after a successful tenure with Naspers, where he managed regulatory matters for their Dutch subsidiary, Prosus, one of the leading internet technology investors globally. His expertise covers areas such as AI, privacy, intellectual property, and competition law.
Leadership in Privacy and Technology
In addition to his time at Naspers, Weiss has held vital legal roles at Yahoo! Inc. and the Network Advertising Initiative, demonstrating his extensive experience in the tech field. His previous leadership as the chair of IAPP’s Board of Directors in 2020 underlines his commitment and influence in shaping privacy governance.
Collaborative Culture at Crowell
Heimes remarked, "The collaborative environment at Crowell & Moring allows me to leverage my expertise in guiding clients through the dynamic landscape of privacy and cybersecurity. This role matches my passion perfectly for addressing the challenges that organizations face."
Weiss' Focus at Crowell
Weiss will play a key role in developing strategies for digital governance. His aim is to support in-house legal teams and senior leadership in managing risks associated with digital compliance and data protection across different jurisdictions.
Addressing Geopolitical Risks and Opportunities
At Crowell, Weiss will be integral in advising clients on how to mitigate geopolitical risks while harnessing the potential of new technologies for market expansion. His insights will be invaluable to organizations looking to thrive in a data-centric business climate.
The Importance of Privacy in Business Today
As businesses increasingly embrace innovation, the need for robust privacy frameworks is critical. Heimes and Weiss's appointments underscore the firm's commitment to helping clients navigate their privacy obligations in the face of the rapidly evolving regulatory environment.
Heimes will guide clients on various compliance issues, such as AI governance, international privacy law compliance, and data-sharing practices. Weiss will concentrate on facilitating digital risk management efforts, addressing compliance with data protection laws, and offering advice related to emerging digital regulations.
About Crowell & Moring LLP
Crowell & Moring is a renowned international law firm catering to clients' diverse needs across multiple sectors. Their dedication to finding innovative solutions to legal challenges helps organizations thrive, ensuring they remain competitive in a complex global environment.
About Crowell Global Advisors
Crowell Global Advisors, an affiliate of Crowell & Moring LLP, specializes in addressing global business challenges. The firm leverages a deep bench of former executives and industry leaders to provide tailored consulting services that enable organizations to overcome hurdles and seize growth opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the new additions to Crowell & Moring's Privacy Group?
Rita Heimes and Justin B. Weiss are the new senior counsel joining Crowell & Moring's Privacy & Cybersecurity Group.
What experience do Rita Heimes and Justin Weiss bring?
Heimes has a background as general counsel at IAPP, while Weiss has held senior positions at Naspers and Yahoo! Inc., focusing on privacy and technology law.
How does Crowell & Moring enhance its privacy services?
The firm aims to strengthen its capabilities in privacy and digital regulation through the expertise of Heimes and Weiss, offering clients strategic guidance in complex regulatory matters.
What areas will Heimes focus on at Crowell?
Heimes will advise clients on AI governance, international privacy law compliance, and data-sharing practices among other regulatory issues.
What is the mission of Crowell Global Advisors?
Crowell Global Advisors aims to assist clients in navigating global challenges and capitalizing on new opportunities through strategic policy consulting.
