KO Expands Data Privacy and Security Practice, Adds Industry Expert

Chris Achatz brings deep industry expertise and GDPR experience to KO’s growing privacy practice

DENVER (May 22, 2018) — Koenig, Oelsner, Taylor, Schoenfeld, & Gaddis, PC (KO) has expanded its data privacy and security practice with the addition of attorney and data privacy expert Chris Achatz.

“A growing number of cybersecurity, technology, software and other companies rely on our expertise in the highly specialized data privacy space,” said Ben Oelsner, partner at KO. “As both a data privacy expert and a former software engineer, Chris brings an in-depth understanding of the industry and the issues that KO clients must navigate, particularly in structuring and negotiating complex technology and data-related transactions, including data privacy and security matters, GDPR compliance and data privacy regulations.”

KO’s data privacy and security team has significant experience advising companies of all sizes, and industry developments such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) continue to drive new demand for expertise in this space. Data assets have also become a significant component of commercial agreements and mergers and acquisitions.

“Chris’ practical approach and incredibly deep knowledge of U.S. and international data security and privacy laws quickly won him the full trust of our large, cross-functional GDPR compliance project team,” said Jill Joerling, associate general counsel at Maritz Holdings Inc. “Chris demonstrated an amazing ability to quickly and fully understand our complex business and provide practical advice tailored to our company’s specific concerns.”

Prior to joining KO, Chris practiced in the data group of Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP and he served as in-house counsel for IHS Markit, a leading data and analytics company. He received his undergraduate degrees from the University of Colorado, and his J.D. from the University of Colorado Law School. Prior to law school, Chris worked as a software engineer.

Chris and KO partner Dan Fredrickson are both Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US). Chris also serves as a Colorado KnowledgeNet Chair for the International Association of Privacy Professionals, where he is responsible for educating the Colorado privacy community, and he frequently lectures on technology and data-related topics.

About KO

Koenig, Oelsner, Taylor, Schoenfeld, & Gaddis, PC (KO) is an innovative corporate and commercial law firm with a team of experienced lawyers and a practical, efficient, business-focused approach. Founded in 2003 on the philosophy that a different approach delivers better value, our business-first legal and industry expertise helps established brands and emerging companies achieve meaningful business outcomes. KO is headquartered in Denver and Boulder, Colo., and specializes in serving technology, life sciences, consumer products, professional services, financial services, manufacturing, energy and ancillary cannabis industries. For more information, visit kofirm.com.