#United States #Washington, D.C. #Crowell & Moring #Rita Heimes #Justin Weiss

Crowell & Moring Strengthens Privacy & Cybersecurity Group

In a significant move to bolster their capabilities in the evolving landscape of privacy and cybersecurity, Crowell & Moring has welcomed two esteemed legal professionals to their team. Rita Heimes, the former General Counsel of the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), and Justin Weiss, who previously held the position of Associate General Counsel at technology investment giant Naspers, join the firm as senior counsels in Washington, D.C. This strategic addition comes at a crucial time when organizations are grappling with complex privacy regulations and cybersecurity threats.

With years of experience and established reputation in the legal industry, Heimes and Weiss are set to enhance Crowell's services, specifically in guiding boards of directors and corporate clients on intricate privacy issues. They aim to provide insight into navigating the increasingly complicated privacy landscape marked by advances in data management, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.

Expertise in Privacy and Cybersecurity

Heimes, who also served as the Chief Privacy Officer at IAPP, brings an impressive 30-year history of advising organizations on technology and data transactions. Her dual role at IAPP saw her managing global compliance regulations and liability risks, particularly those associated with data. Currently, she also shares her expertise as a senior privacy fellow at the University of Maine School of Law, teaching privacy and AI law.

"Crowell's collaborative culture and integrated approach to privacy issues makes it Ideal for me to help clients navigate these dynamic fields," Heimes noted, expressing her enthusiasm for her new role.

On the other hand, Weiss has a robust background in digital investment strategies. At Naspers, he led various regulatory teams that dealt with issues related to AI, privacy, and intellectual property across the full investment lifecycle. Previously, he has held senior legal roles at companies like Yahoo! Inc. and served on the Board of Directors for IAPP.

He emphasized, “The Crowell team is best in class and gives me an opportunity to counsel clients on privacy and digital regulatory issues as they intersect with every aspect of global business.” His focus will be on developing digital governance strategies, assisting clients in managing digital risks, and ensuring compliance with ever-changing regulatory frameworks.

Addressing Global Privacy Challenges

At Crowell, Heimes will engage with clients spanning various sectors, including major tech firms, research institutions, and startups. Her work will involve navigating complex issues such as AI governance and GDPR compliance, ensuring that organizations align their operations with international privacy laws.

Weiss will focus on constructing and executing digital governance frameworks that are crucial for in-house legal teams and senior executives. His advice will cover aspects like data protection compliance and managing the intricacies of geopolitical risks that come with global business operations.

Geralyn Ritter, President and CEO of Crowell Global Advisors, acknowledged the importance of privacy in today’s sectors, stating, "Companies that are innovating need to stay ahead of changing geopolitical risks. Crowell and Crowell Global Advisors work together to help clients grow their businesses in a world where data drives decision-making."

Academic Background

Both legal experts bring an admirable educational pedigree to the firm: Heimes is an alumna of the University of Iowa (Bachelor of Arts in Journalism) and Drake University Law School, while Weiss completed his undergraduate and master's degrees at Middlebury College and acquired his law degree from the University of Maine School of Law. Additionally, he holds a diploma in global business from the University of Oxford.

With these significant additions to the team, Crowell & Moring demonstrates its commitment to navigating the complexities of privacy regulations and cybersecurity challenges, ensuring its clients are well-equipped to handle the dynamic global business landscape.