Akerman Names Michael Adler to Lead AI Governance Practice
Akerman LLP appointed Michael Adler, former Amazon counsel, to lead its AI governance practice.
Why it matters: Law firms are strengthening AI governance expertise to meet growing regulatory and client demands. This hire highlights strategic shifts relevant to legal professionals advising on AI compliance and risk.
- Michael Adler, formerly Amazon counsel, joins Akerman LLP to lead AI governance and data protection.
- Akerman expands its services to address growing generative AI compliance needs.
- Other firms like Simpson Thacher, Latham & Watkins, and Norton Rose Fulbright are hiring senior AI governance roles.
- Simpson Thacher offers $325,000 to $375,000 for its Director of AI Governance & Risk in New York.
Akerman LLP has appointed Michael Adler, who recently served as Amazon's counsel, to lead its AI governance and data protection practice. This move underscores Akerman's commitment to expanding expertise in generative AI and helping clients navigate new regulatory complexities. The firm made the announcement in early August, signaling its focus on emerging AI risks and compliance challenges.
Several other leading law firms are similarly boosting their AI governance capabilities. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is hiring a Director of AI Governance & Risk in New York, offering between $325,000 and $375,000. In London, Latham & Watkins LLP is recruiting an Associate Director of AI Governance, while Norton Rose Fulbright seeks an AI Governance Program Manager in Houston.
Though Akerman has not disclosed a specific spokesperson by name, a firm representative emphasized Adler's extensive background in AI governance and data protection as vital to their growth in this area.
This trend toward appointing specialized AI governance leaders reflects increasing regulatory scrutiny and client demand for legal expertise in managing AI-related risks. Legal professionals managing AI compliance or advising in-house teams will find these developments useful as benchmarks for emerging roles and service expansions in the legal industry.
By the numbers:
- $325,000–$375,000 — Salary range for Simpson Thacher’s Director of AI Governance & Risk role in New York
- 2026-08-06 — Date Akerman announced Michael Adler’s appointment
Yes, but: While job postings show high compensation and hiring intent, official law firm press statements are limited, making some details reliant on indirect sources.
What's next: Expect additional announcements from major law firms expanding AI governance teams as regulatory frameworks for AI continue evolving in 2026.