“Shaping Fair Competition, Protecting Consumers, Advancing Trust”

Jon Leibowitz has built a distinguished career at the intersection of law, policy, and governance, and is recognized nationally for his leadership in antitrust enforcement and defense, consumer protection, consumer privacy and corporate accountability. With more than three decades of experience spanning private practice, federal government leadership, and nonprofit advocacy, Jon is known for his balanced approach to regulation, his commitment to fairness, and his ability to bridge the interests of industry, policymakers, and the public. His career reflects a unique blend of legal rigor, public service, and board-level leadership that continues to shape critical debates on competition and consumer rights in the 21st century.

In the 1990s, Jon served as Chief Counsel and Staff Director to multiple Senate Judiciary Committee Subcommittees. These included the Senate Subcommittee on Juvenile Justice, the Subcommittee on Terrorism and Technology, and, most notably, the Antitrust Subcommittee under Senator Herb Kohl. Over more than a decade in these roles, Jon gained a reputation as a skilled negotiator and trusted advisor, known for guiding successful legislative outcomes. His work during this period established him as a go-to expert on pressing policy questions surrounding competition, data security, gun control and consumer protections.

In 2000, Jon transitioned to the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) as Vice President for Congressional Affairs. At the MPAA, he managed complex relationships between media companies and legislators, navigating challenges posed by the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Jon’s most prominent public service came through his tenure at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), beginning with his Senate confirmation as Commissioner, after being nominated by President Bush, in 2004. Over five years, he championed issues of antitrust, privacy, and consumer protection—areas that became even more critical as technology reshaped markets and consumer behavior. In 2009, he was named Chairman of the FTC by President Obama, where he served until 2013. As Chairman, Jon was instrumental in advancing privacy enforcement and regulation, modernizing antitrust frameworks, and addressing unfair competition practices. His leadership was particularly impactful in the pharmaceutical and health care industries, where the Commission he Chaired won multiple cases at the Supreme Court that reduced costs to American consumers.

Under his stewardship, the FTC sharpened its focus on data privacy and consumer rights in the digital age, recognizing privacy as a core consumer protection issue, in turn laying the groundwork for today’s ongoing debates about data security, consumer consent, AI, and corporate responsibility in the tech sector. His approach was both principled and pragmatic—ensuring the importance of business innovation while insisting on protections for consumers and fair competition in the marketplace.

After leaving the FTC in 2013, Jon became a senior partner at Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP, one of the world’s most prestigious law firms. For nearly a decade, he advised clients on complex antitrust issues, including mergers and acquisitions, government investigations, and litigation. His practice drew upon his government experience, allowing him to guide corporations through regulatory challenges with insight. During this time, Jon also cochaired the 21st Century Privacy Coalition, where he worked with leading telecommunications and broadband companies to advocate for uniform, responsible privacy standards.

Beyond his government and legal work, Jon has also been deeply engaged in governance and advocacy at the board level. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Brand Engagement Network (“BEN”), where he chairs the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the Audit Committee. He is also the Chairman of the Board of the National Consumers League, America’s oldest consumer advocacy organization. These roles reflect his ongoing dedication to advancing consumer rights, corporate governance, and organizational integrity.

Educated at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa, and later at New York University School of Law, Jon’s academic background laid the intellectual foundation for his distinguished career. His blend of academic excellence, legal expertise, and political acumen has allowed him to move seamlessly between sectors while maintaining a consistent focus on fairness, consumer trust, and ethical governance.

Summary

Character: Jon Leibowitz is a principled leader whose career reflects integrity, fairness, and an unwavering dedication to consumer protection. He is widely respected for balancing the interests of business innovation with the rights and needs of everyday people.

Knowledge: With decades of experience across private practice, government service, and nonprofit governance, Jon possesses unparalleled expertise in antitrust law, consumer privacy, and corporate accountability. His knowledge spans the full spectrum of regulatory and legal frameworks that shape modern commerce.

Strategic: Jon has consistently demonstrated the ability to align organizational goals with broader public and policy priorities. His strategic foresight has enabled him to anticipate industry shifts, guide complex negotiations, and shape regulations that endure.

Communication: An articulate and persuasive communicator, Jon excels at translating complex legal and policy concepts into clear, actionable guidance. His collaborative style fosters trust across stakeholders, from government leaders to corporate executives and consumer advocates