Association of Corporate Counsel Taps GE Appliances’ Legal Chief Jason Brown as Next CEO
Posted by: Jinny
Created Date: 02 Sep
The Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC), the world’s premier membership organization dedicated to supporting in-house legal professionals
The Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC), the world’s premier membership organization dedicated to supporting in-house legal professionals, has announced a key leadership transition: Jason Brown, currently serving as General Counsel and Secretary at GE Appliances, will take the helm as the organization’s new President and CEO starting November 1. Brown will step into the role vacated by Veta Richardson, who revealed her plans to step down in 2023 after a 14-year tenure leading the ACC.
The appointment comes after a rigorous selection process, with the ACC’s global board highlighting Brown’s extensive leadership experience, track record of driving innovation, and deep familiarity with the in-house legal community as critical factors in his selection. As General Counsel at GE Appliances, Brown has been a driving force behind the digital transformation of the company’s legal department—an initiative that streamlined operations, enhanced efficiency, and set new standards for how legal teams leverage technology to support business goals. This expertise is expected to be instrumental in advancing the ACC’s mission to empower in-house counsel worldwide, especially as the legal industry continues to grapple with rapid technological change, evolving regulatory landscapes, and increasing demands for strategic agility.
Cristina Gonzalez, Chair of the ACC’s Global Board and Chief Legal Officer at Staples, emphasized Brown’s unique qualifications for the role in a statement. “Jason’s proven leadership, global perspective, and longstanding commitment to the ACC make him the ideal candidate to lead our organization into its next chapter,” Gonzalez said. “Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing in-house counsel—from navigating complex legal risks to driving initiatives that elevate the role of legal teams within their organizations. We are confident that his vision will strengthen the ACC’s ability to deliver exceptional value to our members and stakeholders across the globe.”
Brown’s career in in-house legal leadership spans decades, with roles at some of the world’s most recognizable brands. Before joining GE Appliances in 2018, he served as General Counsel for Dyson’s Americas business, where he oversaw legal strategy for the region’s operations, including product development, marketing, and compliance. Prior to that, he held the position of Associate General Counsel at MillersCoors, where he managed a team focused on corporate governance, litigation, and regulatory affairs. His journey in in-house counsel began at Pepsi Beverages Company, where he worked as Director of Legal—an entry point that shaped his understanding of the critical role in-house lawyers play in aligning legal objectives with business success.
Beyond his professional roles, Brown has a long history of engagement with the ACC, which has deepened his connection to the organization’s mission and members. He previously served on the board of directors for the ACC’s Chicago Chapter and later took on the role of Chapter President, where he led efforts to expand networking opportunities, educational programming, and advocacy initiatives for local in-house counsel. He also served on the ACC’s Global Board of Directors, giving him firsthand insight into the organization’s global strategy and the diverse needs of its members across different regions and industries. His contributions to the legal community have also been widely recognized: Savoy Magazine named him one of the “Most Influential Black Attorneys in America” in 2015, 2018, and 2022—a testament to his impact as a leader and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession.
In commenting on his appointment, Brown expressed enthusiasm for building on the ACC’s strong foundation and advancing its mission in the years ahead. “The ACC has long been a vital resource for in-house counsel, providing the support, tools, and community we need to excel in an increasingly complex world,” he said. “My vision is to foster a culture of collaboration and innovation within the organization—one that brings together members from all backgrounds and industries to share insights, solve common challenges, and drive positive change. Together, we will continue to elevate the role of in-house counsel globally, delivering unparalleled support, unrivaled educational programming, and premium resources that help our members thrive both professionally and personally.”
As Brown prepares to take office, attention also turns to Veta Richardson, whose legacy at the ACC has left an indelible mark on the organization. Richardson, who has led the ACC since 2011, gave the organization a full year’s notice of her departure to ensure a smooth transition—a decision that reflects her commitment to the ACC’s long-term success. During her 14-year tenure, she oversaw significant growth in the ACC’s global membership, expanded its advocacy efforts on behalf of in-house counsel, and strengthened its partnerships with legal service providers, corporations, and academic institutions. Under her leadership, the ACC launched several groundbreaking initiatives, including programs focused on mental health support for legal professionals, diversity in the in-house ranks, and the integration of technology into legal practice.
Richardson’s career before leading the ACC also underscores her deep roots in the legal community. Prior to 2011, she spent more than a decade as Executive Director and President of the Minority Corporate Counsel Association (MCCA), where she worked to increase diversity in corporate legal departments and law firms. Before that, she held roles at the ACC as Vice President of Legal Resources and Deputy General Counsel—giving her a unique understanding of the organization’s inner workings and its members’ needs.
In reflecting on her time at the ACC, Richardson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the organization and highlighted the role of the ACC’s staff, board, and members in its success. “Leading the ACC has been the most rewarding experience of my career,” she said in a statement last October, when she first announced her plans to step down. “I am grateful to have worked with an incredible team of staff who rose to every challenge, turning strategic goals into tangible results that benefited our members. I also want to thank our global board, chapter leaders, members, sponsors, and partners for their trust and support over the years. The ACC is stronger today because of their dedication, and I will always treasure the friendships and connections I’ve made here.”
Looking ahead to her post-ACC plans, Richardson intends to stay active in the legal and academic communities. She plans to serve on corporate boards, teach at Georgetown University Law Center—where she will share her expertise on legal leadership and in-house practice—and write a sequel to her bestselling career guide, Take Six, which offers advice for legal professionals navigating their careers. She also noted that she plans to pursue “many other passions and interests,” though she did not provide additional details.
The transition between Richardson and Brown is expected to be seamless, with both leaders working closely in the coming months to ensure continuity in the ACC’s operations and strategic priorities. For members of the ACC, the appointment of Brown represents a commitment to building on the organization’s strengths while embracing new opportunities to support in-house counsel in an ever-changing legal environment. As the legal industry continues to evolve—with issues like artificial intelligence, global regulatory compliance, and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) considerations taking center stage—Brown’s experience in driving innovation and his deep understanding of the in-house community position him well to lead the ACC into a future of growth and impact.
In the end, the ACC’s leadership change is more than just a shift in personnel—it is a testament to the organization’s commitment to excellence and its role as a cornerstone of the global in-house legal community. With Brown at the helm and Richardson’s legacy guiding its path, the ACC is poised to remain a vital resource for in-house counsel for years to come, supporting their work, advocating for their interests, and helping them navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern legal landscape.
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