Partner-level Privacy Counsel

An internationally recognized Washington, DC law firm is seeking a Partner-level Privacy Counsel with 30 years of experience to join its U.S. Data Protection, Privacy, and Cybersecurity practice. The position emphasizes proactive legal counseling on domestic and global privacy laws, helping clients manage compliance, governance, and regulatory risk across sectors.

Duties

• Advise clients on compliance with privacy laws, including: GDPR, CCPA/CPRA, HIPAA, COPPA, TCPA, FTC Act, and additional emerging U.S. state laws
• Develop and assess privacy compliance programs, risk frameworks, and internal data handling policies
• Counsel on cross-border data transfers, localization requirements, and international data flows
• Provide legal support on privacy concerns related to digital platforms, AI, advertising, and big data
• Draft and negotiate data protection agreements and vendor contracts
• Offer guidance on consent frameworks, privacy notices, and consumer data rights
• Conduct privacy due diligence during corporate transactions and mergers
• Assist in managing regulatory investigations, enforcement actions, and consumer complaints
• Support readiness programs for new and evolving privacy regulations
• Collaborate with breach response teams on incidents and notifications
• Participate in data breach simulations and assist with response planning
• Provide legal advice on data governance and enterprise-level privacy strategy

Requirements

• 30 years of dedicated privacy law experience
• Proficiency in U.S. federal and state privacy regulations
• Familiarity with GDPR and other global privacy frameworks preferred
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex matters independently
• Experience advising clients and managing cross-functional legal projects
• Strong contract negotiation and policy drafting skills
• Law firm experience strongly preferred; in-house considered with relevant expertise
• Should have a portable book of business

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Active license to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction

Certifications

• CIPP/US, CIPT, or equivalent privacy certification (preferred)

Skills

• In-depth understanding of domestic and international privacy law
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Experience interfacing directly with clients and external stakeholders
• Capability to work within interdisciplinary teams and manage external partners
• Adaptability to rapidly evolving regulatory environments and client needs

Benefits

• Eligibility for performance-based bonus compensation
• Paid time off benefits:
  • Minimum 20 days annual leave (based on tenure and role)
  • 11 firm holidays
  • Minimum 14 weeks of paid parental leave

• Career growth and support resources:
  • Executive coaching for eligible attorneys
  • Reimbursement for business development initiatives
  • Referral bonuses up to $50,000
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• Pro bono and community engagement:
  • 8 hours of annual paid time for community service

For some years this law firm has provided cost effective counsel on a wide range of matters that businesses face. Their areas of practice include health care, transactions, and corporate law. The firm is located in DC.