San Francisco-based generative artificial intelligence company OpenAI is steadily augmenting its legal department. Its most recent addition, Andrea Appella, formerly of Netflix Inc as the head of global competition, affirms the growing legal prowess of OpenAI. Appella has joined the OpenAI team as its first lawyer in London, taking on the role of associate general counsel for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, where he will be responsible for managing competition, regulatory, and policy issues.
This rapid expansion supports OpenAI’s ongoing search for new funding at a reported valuation of $100 billion. The team has actively enlisted recruits from Big Law, Big Tech, and the US government. This comes amidst antitrust inquiries facing leading tech companies, including Microsoft Corp and OpenAI itself, regarding their AI alliances.
OpenAI’s attention to legal counsel is particularly relevant following the European Union regulators’ recent implementation of new directives for AI tools. Allies such as the US Federal Trade Commission have their focus on the exact nature of Microsoft’s investment in OpenAI, and the precise relationship between the two entities—a matter of keen interest to EU regulators.
OpenAI is also recruiting from Big Tech. Acquisitions from Google include former head of global litigation Renny Hwang, and Charles Proctor, a seasoned privacy counsel. They have also enlisted former Google litigation director Nora Puckett, and Fred von Lohmann, who previously served for nearly a decade as Google’s top copyright lawyer. Specifically, from the ranks of Airbnb, Meng Jia Yang signed on to become the senior counsel for AI policy and regulation.
Legal experts note that lawyers operating in the fast-paced world of technological evolution and innovation have the opportunity to further their careers while building a competitive edge. They express that opportunities to join high-profile companies faced with pioneering legal challenges are appealing, particularly companies instigating new legislation from AI technologies which would also make them attractive in future opportunities.
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