Shawn Charnaw
Senior Commercial Counsel Digital Advertising
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About
I’m a seasoned Senior Commercial Counsel with a knack for solving legal puzzles and a personality that keeps even the toughest negotiations lighthearted. Over a decade, I’ve mastered the intricacies of digital advertising, privacy, and data protection laws, supporting global sales teams and C-level executives with strategic legal guidance. From structuring airtight SaaS agreements to navigating the labyrinth of GDPR compliance, I balance business goals with legal savvy. A public speaker and sports enthusiast, I thrive on collaboration and bringing people together—whether in the boardroom or on the field.
Job Categories
Industries
Top Skills
What I Offer
I provide legal expertise that blends technical precision with a human touch, making complex matters manageable for businesses navigating the digital advertising and SaaS landscapes.
Privacy Compliance Solutions
Guiding businesses through GDPR and other global privacy laws.
SaaS Contract Negotiation
Crafting technology agreements that balance innovation and risk.
Strategic Legal Advisory
Partnering with executives to align legal strategies with growth goals.
Ask Me About
Privacy Readiness Toolkit
SaaS Contract Success Package
Global Negotiation Navigator
Public Speaking Masterclass
Wisdom at Work
Notable Roles
Senior Commercial Counsel – PubMatic
Managed global legal operations for sales and marketing teams, leading data protection compliance and supporting IPO preparations, while receiving multiple service and innovation awards.
Executive Director, Legal Affairs – Organic
Led legal efforts for a global advertising subsidiary, negotiating agreements with industry giants like Google and Nike, while safeguarding intellectual property portfolios.
Senior Corporate Counsel – JaxNJaz, Inc.
Oversaw the legal and business affairs of an advertising tech startup, managing vendor negotiations and strategic partnerships for maximum efficiency.
Areas of Expertise
Privacy and Data Protection
Crafting and negotiating agreements that align with global privacy laws like GDPR and evolving state-specific regulations, ensuring transparency and security in data use.
Commercial and Technology Transactions
Developing and negotiating SaaS licensing agreements, service contracts, and technology partnerships that drive business value while mitigating risks.
Strategic Legal Operations
Advising C-level leaders and cross-functional teams, aligning legal operations with business objectives, and managing complex international transactions.
Key Achievements
IPO Legal Readiness
Supported PubMatic’s successful IPO, managing the commercial legal team and ensuring compliance with key regulations.
Privacy Compliance Pioneer
Developed privacy-focused amendments and addenda to address evolving laws, safeguarding organizational compliance and client trust
Global Transaction Expertise
Negotiated high-value international joint ventures, delivering strategic growth for industry-leading clients like Apple and Cisco.
Wisdom is whittled from years of trial and error. They say it takes 10000 hours to become an expert. By the time you're 50, you've amassed enough hours to be an expert on just about anything!
Thought Leadership
Summary of Skills
