Jared Cook

Partner

New Mexico

mwhitener@vlplawgroup.com

+1 703 992 3662

Michael Whitener is a seasoned technology transactions and privacy attorney with deep expertise in artificial intelligence, data privacy and cybersecurity. A former international general counsel with all the IAPP certifications under his belt, he’s known for his plain-English drafting and practical advice in complex, evolving regulatory environments.

Michael advises clients at the intersection of emerging technologies, privacy law and AI governance. He structures and negotiates a wide range of technology agreements – including software and patent licenses, cloud services, distribution and outsourcing deals – always aiming for contracts that are clear, fair and enforceable.

In the privacy and cybersecurity space, Michael helps clients navigate both U.S. and international laws, including the GDPR and the CCPA. He conducts audits, drafts privacy policies and transfer agreements, and guides clients through data breach response and compliance planning. His focus areas include cross-border data flows, mobile platforms, and privacy by design.

Michael has earned all eight certifications from the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), including the U.S., EU, Canada and Asia tracks, as well as certifications in AI governance (AIGP), information privacy management (CIPM) and IT privacy (CIPT). He was named an IAPP Fellow of Information Privacy and is a two-time BTI Client Service All-Star. Before joining VLP, Michael held senior legal roles at WorldSpace Asia and BearingPoint, and practiced with Sidley Austin and Hogan Lovells. He also served as a Senior Trade Adviser at the U.S. Department of Commerce and was a Fulbright Fellow in Japan.

Michael earned his J.D. from the University of Virginia and his B.A. in English from the College of William & Mary. He lives in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains in New Mexico, where he trains for powerlifting competitions in his absurdly over-equipped home gym.