Emily Harlan Named Bandwidth's New General Counsel, Succeeding Brandon Asbill

Bandwidth Appoints Emily Harlan as General Counsel

In a significant move for the legal department, Bandwidth Inc., a prominent player in global cloud communications, has announced the promotion of Emily Harlan to the position of General Counsel and Secretary. This change will take effect from September 1, 2026, as the current General Counsel, Brandon Asbill, retires after more than five years at the helm.

Harlan's ascension comes after a notable tenure at Bandwidth, beginning in 2018 as Deputy General Counsel. During her time, she has progressively taken on greater responsibilities, proving her adeptness in navigating complex legal landscapes and supporting the company’s rapid growth. Her promotion is a testament to her leadership capabilities and deep understanding of Bandwidth’s operations.

In a statement, David Morken, Bandwidth's Co-founder and CEO, expressed his confidence in Harlan's abilities, citing her judgment and integrity in high-pressure situations. “Emily is a remarkable lawyer and a trusted advisor who possesses a deep knowledge of Bandwidth and our business,” he noted. Morken further emphasized that Harlan has earned the confidence of both the leadership team and the Board, making her an ideal candidate to lead the legal function.

Harlan's legal career at Bandwidth has been marked by various roles, including oversight of dispute resolution, litigation, and compliance matters. Notably, she also served as the Ethics and Compliance Officer overseeing employment law issues. Prior to her role at Bandwidth, Harlan was a partner at Nixon Peabody LLP in Washington, D.C.

Reflecting on her new role, Harlan expressed her gratitude and excitement: “I’m honored and grateful for the opportunity to continue contributing to Bandwidth’s success alongside such a talented team.” She highlighted her collaborative experiences with colleagues and her ambition to enhance the strong legal foundation laid by both Asbill and her predecessors.

Asbill has been an integral part of Bandwidth's expansion as a global entity, having built a robust legal framework that supports the company’s international activities. “Serving as Bandwidth’s General Counsel has been one of the great honors of my career,” Asbill said as he prepares to transition out of the role. He will continue to serve as General Counsel Emeritus and Assistant Secretary until his full retirement at the end of the year.

Under Asbill’s leadership, Bandwidth has navigated a crucial growth phase, establishing itself as an innovator in the cloud communications field. Asbill’s departure marks the end of a pivotal era for the company, but he expressed full faith in Harlan’s capability to lead the legal team effectively.

As Bandwidth moves forward, Harlan’s promotion symbolizes not just an internal succession but also the company’s commitment to strong and effective legal guidance as it continues to scale its operations globally. Harlan embraces the challenges and opportunities of her new role, poised to steer the legal direction of a company that prides itself on being a leader in cloud communications, trusted by major enterprises around the globe.

Bandwidth Inc. offers robust solutions in voice calling, text messaging, and emergency services, operating in around 70 countries and covering 90% of global GDP. Their platforms are vital for many major companies, including leaders in technology and telecommunications. As the company embarks on its next chapter under Harlan’s leadership, it continues to emphasize its pioneering spirit within the cloud communications sector.