Jason Brown to spearhead ACC’s global expansion with focus on Asia and AI innovation

Jason Brown is poised to lead the world’s largest organisation for in-house lawyers, the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC), as its new president and CEO starting 1 November 2025. Brown's appointment marks a significant transition following the 14-year tenure of outgoing CEO Veta Richardson, who has been widely credited with positioning the ACC as a global authority for in-house counsel. Brown’s leadership journey, notably shaped by more than 25 years of practising law predominantly in-house, brings a blend of seasoned experience and vibrant energy to the organisation.

Brown’s career includes high-profile roles such as Vice President, General Counsel, and Secretary at GE Appliances, a Haier company, as well as in-house counsel positions with Dyson, MillerCoors, and Pepsi Beverages Company. His leadership at GE Appliances was distinguished by spearheading the digital transformation of the legal department and overseeing the evolution of enterprise risk management. Additionally, Brown’s professional background includes serving as executive director and general counsel for the National Association of Minority and Women-Owned Law Firms. His credentials are complemented by a Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law, and he has been recognised repeatedly by Savoy Magazine as one of the Most Influential Black Attorneys in America.

Brown’s vision for the ACC is expansive and inclusive, with a strong focus on strengthening the organisation’s engagement across Asia, a region that already hosts vibrant ACC chapters in Hong Kong, Singapore, and India. While based in the US, his frequent work with Haier and other Asia-related assignments have given him a nuanced understanding of that market’s needs and potential. He stresses that Asia’s in-house counsel community is integral to the ACC’s global strategy, aiming to create a membership experience that is both inspiring and practically valuable, especially in tackling issues like AI governance and regulatory compliance across borders.

This approach aligns with Brown’s emphasis on ACC’s unique identity: an organisation created by and for in-house counsel. He views the ACC as a vital resource tailored specifically to the evolving challenges faced by in-house legal teams, from adapting to shifting regulatory landscapes to developing capabilities that enhance their contribution to business success. To maintain its position as the first port of call for in-house counsel, Brown aims to sustain the ACC’s relevance by offering thought leadership, practical tools, and an inclusive community atmosphere that fosters enthusiasm rather than mere habit.

Part of Brown’s plans includes broadening regional participation and breaking down geographic barriers that might limit cross-jurisdictional learning and collaboration. He champions the idea that borders should be viewed as opportunities rather than hindrances, encouraging members from Asia not only to engage at local and regional events but also to participate in ACC’s global conferences in the US and Europe. Brown specifically highlights ACC’s recently launched AI toolkit as an example of an innovative resource designed to help members navigate complex technological and ethical challenges.

The ACC’s established presence in Asia is significant, with chapters actively supporting hundreds of members. The Singapore chapter alone serves over 300 in-house lawyers, facilitating networking, knowledge sharing, and continuing legal education to connect local members with the global in-house counsel profession. Similarly, the Hong Kong chapter operates under dedicated leadership to deliver events and seminars that further the interests of its community. Brown’s task will be to build on this strong foundation and expand ACC’s footprint in the region through intentional outreach and personalised engagement efforts.

Brown’s leadership philosophy pivots on the power of genuine enthusiasm and proactive participation. He believes that success for the ACC will come from members choosing to engage with the organisation because they see clear value and connection, not merely out of tradition or recognition. To younger in-house counsel, especially in Asia, he offers an empowering call to step up and shape their careers actively by leveraging opportunities and resources ACC provides—a support system that helped him in his own career progression toward his first general counsel role.

As he assumes the CEO role, Brown carries a clear message: leadership is accessible to all in-house lawyers willing to embrace it. The ACC, under his stewardship, looks ready to enter a new phase marked by growth, deeper global engagement, and continued focus on serving the dynamic needs of in-house counsel worldwide.