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  • Homeland Security’s Chief Privacy Officer Joins Frost Brown Todd as Partner

Mason C. Clutter’s deep experience in privacy law to enhance FBT’s strong data security & privacy capabilities

Mason C. Clutter, former Chief Privacy Officer and Chief Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Officer for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has joined Frost Brown Todd’s Data, Digital Assets and Technology (DDAT) practice group.

Clutter brings a wealth of experience in privacy law and data-related policy which will significantly enhance FBT’s capabilities in addressing many of the primary concerns of our clients in these areas. Her role at DHS involved providing timely advice and guidance on privacy, security, and transparency matters, managing systems that handle personally identifiable information, and overseeing policies on emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. Clutter will bring this experience to FBT’s Data Security and Privacy team, which has an already deep bench in privacy compliance, information handling, and more. Serving within the DDAT group, this team is fluent in the technology and sophisticated data management systems used by businesses competing in today’s economy.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mason to our team,” said Neal Patel, leader of Frost Brown Todd’s DDAT practice group. “Her unparalleled credentials and reputation in privacy law and her proven track record in designing and implementing compliance programs will be invaluable as we continue to deepen our bench in data and privacy. Mason has very high-level experience, extraordinary insight on policies related to data and technology, and a unique ability to articulate complex privacy issues. These skills are crucial to our clients in today’s rapidly evolving landscape.”

“Mason’s arrival is a key step in advancing our strategic vision to grow a world-class data security and privacy practice. As clients face increasing challenges in navigating complex cybersecurity regulations and data privacy laws, her deep understanding of government processes and regulatory frameworks will provide invaluable insights. Mason’s expertise strengthens our firm’s ability to anticipate and address the evolving needs of our clients in this critical area, solidifying our position as a leader in offering innovative and timely legal solutions in today’s data-driven world,” said Robert Sartin, FBT chairman.

Based in FBT’s Washington, D.C. office, Clutter will also contribute to the firm’s already robust lobbying group. Clutter has strong roots in Washington, having held a variety of roles at the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB), an independent agency with a mission to ensure that efforts to prevent terrorism are balanced with privacy and civil liberties, before joining the Department of Homeland Security. Clutter also served on a detail to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, Office of the General Counsel, and in many legal and policy roles in the non-government community.

As an experienced Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) practitioner, Clutter adds valuable dimension to the firm’s legal offerings, providing Frost Brown Todd clients with assistance in obtaining critical government records related to various matters.

Clutter holds a J.D. from Barry University School of Law and an LL.M. in Law and Government from American University, Washington College of Law. She is a frequent speaker in the privacy community and has presented at high-profile conferences such as the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and South by Southwest (SXSW).