Sidley Austin has made a strategic appointment by bringing on board Michael Hochman as a partner within its privacy and cybersecurity practice in Washington, D.C. This significant hire was announced on Thursday, February 28, 2025, by the firm, marking an important development in its efforts to bolster expertise in key emerging tech areas.
Hochman arrives at Sidley Austin from the White House Office of the National Cyber Director, where his role was instrumental in advising cybersecurity policy and strategy. His portfolio at the White House included a focus on national security initiatives, with a considerable emphasis on privacy, artificial intelligence, and even quantum computing. His transition from the federal government to a leading law firm underscores the growing interface between private sector legal practice and national cybersecurity priorities.
This appointment reflects a broader trend where major law firms are increasingly looking to leverage the insights and experience of former government officials. Such hires are particularly valuable for clients navigating complex regulatory landscapes, especially in areas related to cybersecurity and privacy law.
Further details regarding Hochman’s role and background can be found on Sidley Austin’s official announcement or in the Bloomberg Law article covering this transition.