Curran is a leader in cross-industry initiatives to implement self-regulatory codes and best practices for data-driven platforms

Adding to its nationally recognized Privacy and Data Security practice, Venable LLP announced that Charles D. Curran is joining the firm as a partner in its Washington office. Mr. Curran brings nearly twenty years of experience in the regulatory issues facing the digital medium, with a specific focus on privacy and data security issues arising from digital marketing.

Curran previously served as Executive Director and General Counsel of the Network Advertising Initiative (NAI), a leading self-regulatory program for interest-based advertising. During his tenure, the NAI successfully implemented a robust member practice code and accountability procedures. In that role, he helped launch the Digital Advertising Alliance’s cross-industry program for consumer transparency and control for online behavioral advertising. As an industry consultant, Mr. Curran has also worked with stakeholders to promote policymaker education about the consumer benefits of emerging data platforms.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with Chuck for more than a decade on some of the most important legal and policy issues in online advertising,” said Stuart P. Ingis, head of Venable’s Privacy and Data Security practice and the firm’s Chair-Elect. “A thoughtful and effective problem solver, Chuck was a leading voice in the launch of the successful cross-industry self-regulation of interest-based ads. His background and experience are unparalleled and will be a valued asset for our clients.”

Mr. Curran was an in-house attorney with AOL’s Legal department for twelve years, and served as Chief Counsel of its Policy and Regulatory group. In that role he advised senior management on consumer regulatory and legislative developments affecting AOL’s business model. He directed the company’s compliance initiatives for privacy and data security. He also led AOL’s anti-spam litigation campaign, and spearheaded AOL’s advocacy of anti-spam legislation.

Commenting on his move to Venable, Mr. Curran said, “If you’re interested in working on the most challenging issues in the field of consumer privacy, Venable is the place to be. Venable brings unique insight and relationships to the handling of emerging data use issues at the intersection of policy and regulation. I’ve worked with Stu and the rest of the Venable team for years, so I know firsthand how effective they can be at solving complicated data policy challenges, from innovation in consumer-facing technologies to cross-industry self-regulation.”

At Venable, Mr. Curran joins a pioneering data privacy practice that is one of the deepest in the United States. Consistently recognized among the leading firms by Chambers USA and Legal 500, the group is a past winner of the Chambers USA Award for Excellence.

Mr. Curran earned his J.D. from Columbia University Law School and his B.A. from Yale University.