Netflix Taps Clete Willems to Lead Public Policy

Netflix has found its new head of public policy, turning to a veteran partner at the powerful law firm Akin Gump to oversee the streaming giant’s policy strategy and manage its policy teams around the world.

Clete Willems, the Akin Gump attorney, will become Netflix’s chief global affairs officer, based in Washington D.C., he will report to co-CEO Ted Sarandos, starting later this month.

A veteran of both the Trump and Obama administrations (during Trump’s first term he was an adviser on trade and economics issues, and worked in the office of the U.S. Trade Representative during Obama’s administration), Willems “advises trade associations and multinational companies on international economic law and policy” at Akin Gump.

Netflix of course operates in over 190 countries, making its policy strategy and teams remarkably complex and sprawling.

“We are excited to welcome Clete Willems as our Chief Global Affairs Officer. Clete’s strong background in policy strategy and international relations will be key in guiding our global efforts,” Sarandos said in a statement. “His expertise will help Netflix engage effectively with leaders worldwide, advocating for policies that support continued investment, innovation and growth.”

Last fall Netflix parted ways with chief communications officer Rachel Whetstone and global public policy VP Dean Garfield, saying at the time that it planned to combine policy and corporate communications. The company says it is still searching for someone to succeed Whetstone as its head of communications.

Axios first reported Willem’s hire.