Jon Adams

About Jon Adams

I am an experienced technology lawyer and strategic advisor specializing in artificial intelligence (AI), data protection, technology transactions, and regulatory compliance. I work at the intersection of law, technology, and business, with a career spanning both Washington D.C. and Silicon Valley. I collaborate with business and engineering leaders to navigate complex challenges in product development, enterprise risk management, commercial transactions, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory engagement, privacy and data governance, and data security.I see both the forest and the trees. My approach blends legal expertise with strategic foresight and business acumen, driving both risk mitigation and business growth in highly regulated, fast-evolving environments. As a trusted advisor to executives, I deliver pragmatic, high-impact solutions that align legal strategy with broader organizational goals. When hard problems arise, I help solve them.As a thought leader in the field, I am a contributor to some of the ABA’s authoritative texts on privacy and security. I have spoken at conferences and panels across North America, Europe, and Africa, sharing insights on data protection, privacy compliance, artificial intelligence, technology transactions, and emerging legal issues in technology.Outside of my professional work, I’m passionate about environmental preservation, trail running (including ultra-marathons), backpacking in the High Sierra, cycling, and gardening.

Experience

1. Member, Board of Directors

   Calwild

   Aug 2024 — Present

   Member of the Board of CalWild. CalWild protects and restores the state’s wildest natural landscapes and watersheds on public lands. These important wild places provide clean air and water, refuges and habitat connections for plants and wildlife, immense cultural values, outstanding opportunities for recreation and spiritual renewal, and are important tools in addressing climate change. CalWild is the only statewide organization dedicated solely to protecting and restoring the wild places and native biodiversity of California’s public lands.

Education

• William & Mary

  AB, Magna Cum Laude, History and American Studies

  2002 — 2006

• Robinson Secondary

  IB Diploma

  1998 — 2002

• University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School

  Doctor of Law (JD), Cum Laude

  2007 — 2010