Global law firm Latham & Watkins LLP has announced the appointment of Aaron Amundson as counsel in its Economic Sanctions & Export Controls Practice, part of the firm’s White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice, based in Washington, D.C.
Amundson brings nearly two decades of experience from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), where he most recently served as Acting Director of the Office of National Security Controls and Director of the Information Technology Controls Division. His work at BIS included leading policy development and enforcement on U.S. export controls related to computers, telecommunications, encryption technologies, and AI processors.
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During his tenure, Amundson oversaw key regulatory reforms, implemented new controls for advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and semiconductors, and played an active role in shaping the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). He also represented the U.S. in Wassenaar Arrangement negotiations, trained international partners on export control systems, and coordinated interagency efforts on CFIUS reviews, mitigation agreements, and policy initiatives with OFAC.
“We are delighted to welcome Aaron to Latham,” said Mandy Reeves, Office Managing Partner of Latham & Watkins in Washington, D.C. “His extensive government background and in-depth technical expertise in encryption, AI, and semiconductors will significantly enhance our Economic Sanctions & Export Controls team.”
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Kevin Chambers, Global Co-Chair of the firm’s White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice, added, “Aaron’s blend of legal, regulatory, and technical insight will be invaluable to clients navigating complex export compliance and enforcement matters. His industry-wide credibility further strengthens our market-leading capabilities.”
Les Carnegie, partner and co-lead of Latham’s Economic Sanctions & Export Controls and CFIUS & US National Security Practices, noted, “Aaron’s leadership at BIS and mastery of export controls in high-tech sectors will bolster our ability to deliver actionable guidance on EAR compliance, technology classifications, and high-stakes national security reviews.”
Amundson expressed enthusiasm about joining the firm, saying,
“I’m excited to become part of Latham’s exceptional team. The firm’s platform will allow me to use my experience in emerging technologies and regulatory policy to help clients anticipate global trade developments, mitigate risks, and achieve strategic goals in a fast-changing environment.”
Amundson’s addition reinforces Latham & Watkins’ continued expansion in the area of economic sanctions, export control law, and national security advisory, reflecting the growing importance of technology-focused regulatory compliance in global markets.
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