Meta lawyers hire ex-data chief Helen Dixon as platform battles regulator

Former Data Protection Commissioner Helen Dixon has been hired by Meta’s law firm amid legal battles with the regulator, writes Brian Mahon. Mason Hayes and Curran announced Ms Dixon as a major hire this month. The company lists Meta on its website as one of its clients. Ms Dixon headed the Data Protection Commission (DPC) when it issued some fines to the controversial social media company. At the firm she will contribute to wider policy and advisory initiatives “ensuring close alignment with ongoing regulatory and legislative developments”, the company said. In a statement confirming her appointment as a Global Digital Regulatory Consultant, the firm said Ms Dixon will “not consult on any matters in which she had decision-making involvement during her previous tenure at the Data Protection Commission and the Commission for Communications Regulation. “Her appointment represents a further strengthening of our leadership in digital regulation, ensuring the firm can guide clients through the next phase of technology regulation and enforcement.” The statement added: “Helen will further enhance the firm’s capabilities in data and technology regulation, and platform governance. “In her new role, Helen will support clients in an increasingly complex regulatory environment shaped by emerging EU and global rules regulating data, technology, AI and content.” Philip Nolan, head of data and tech in the firm, said: “We are delighted to welcome Helen to the firm at a time when digital regulation is rapidly expanding and evolving along with increased enforcement. “Organisations face growing expectations to manage risk and user safety while ensuring correct governance mechanisms are in place.” He highlighted “Helen’s unique experience at the highest levels of regulatory oversight” which he said would “strengthen” the firm’s ability to help clients “build compliance” while they continue to deliver cutting edge technology services to their users. Ms Dixon said: “I am pleased to join the team at Mason Hayes and Curran at a time when data and technology regulation along with digital platform governance are rapidly evolving. “Regulators are placing greater emphasis on accountability, transparency, and risk mitigation in online environments. “I look forward to helping Mason Hayes and Curran’s clients develop practical strategies that enable them to operate confidently while meeting regulatory and societal expectations.” Helen Dixon with Philip Nolan of Mason Hayes & Curran A spokeswoman for the law firm said: “It is over two years since Helen was Commissioner at the DPC. Three commissioners were appointed to replace her, two of whom are in situ for over two years. “Helen served an additional ‘cooling-off’ year, in accordance with Standards in Public Office rules last year, and her role at Mason Hayes and Curran is fully compliant with Standards in Public Office.”

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