Julie Brill

Microsoft has hired former FTC commissioner Julie Brill as its new corporate vice president in charge of privacy, data protection and other regulatory issues — a newly created role at the Redmond tech giant.

Brill was appointed by President Obama to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission in 2010 and served in the role for nearly six years. She stepped down last year to join law firm Hogan Lovells, heading up its Global Privacy and Cybersecurity Practice Group.

In her new role at Microsoft, Brill will lead the company’s Privacy and Regulatory Affairs Group, working with regulators, policymakers and others, in addition to working with Microsoft’s internal engineering teams on privacy protections and initiatives such as meeting new European Union privacy standards.

“Cloud computing, big data and artificial intelligence have the potential to drive profound and positive change across society, but they raise new issues and responsibilities as well,” said Brad Smith, Microsoft president, in a statement today. “Julie’s deep expertise in privacy, keen intellect, and strong international relationships will enable our customers to use the Microsoft Cloud knowing that we will help meet their global technology regulatory needs.”

Brill said in a statement, “I’ve been deeply impressed by Microsoft’s commitment to privacy, their willingness to stand up for customers and their focus on offering constructive solutions to new challenges. I’ve always tried to do the same throughout my career in government. I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to contribute in a new and particularly meaningful way.”

She will report to Smith in her new role. Fred Humphries, another Microsoft corporate vice president who also reports to Smith, remains the company’s head of government affairs.

Like what you're reading? Subscribe to GeekWire's free newsletters to catch every headline

Job Listings on GeekWork

Find more jobs on GeekWork. Employers, post a job here.