"Retailers use technology to better serve their customers every day and need to have a seat at the table when policymakers are debating laws and regulations that affect innovation."
WASHINGTON – The National Retail Federation today announced that it has hired veteran technology policy expert Michael Lemon to manage NRF’s portfolio of e-commerce and related issues as vice president for legal affairs.
“Mike Lemon has worked on technology-related issues ranging from privacy to intellectual property for more than a decade, both on Capitol Hill and in the private sector,” NRF Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel Stephanie Martz said. “His wealth of experience and expertise will be invaluable as we advocate on behalf of the retail industry on these complex and fast-changing challenges.”
“Retail is one of the most technology-driven industries in the economy regardless of the products they’re selling or whether they’re being sold in-store, online or through an app,” Lemon said. “Retailers use technology to better serve their customers every day and need to have a seat at the table when policymakers are debating laws and regulations that affect innovation. I look forward to being part of that conversation.”
Lemon will manage key issues involving online marketplaces and other digital platforms, stolen and counterfeit goods and intellectual property. He will lead NRF’s member councils on those and other issues and serve as liaison to external groups. As part of NRF’s Office of the General Counsel, he will also lead ongoing legal work and special projects.
Lemon comes to NRF from the Internet Association, where he served as senior director of government affairs and counsel and worked on tech policy in areas such as privacy, IP and trade. Before that, he was senior counsel for the Senate Judiciary Committee, working on antitrust investigations, privacy, technology, IP, immigration and data security, among other topics.
Lemon holds a bachelor’s degree and law degree from Brigham Young University.
About NRF
The National Retail Federation, the world’s largest retail trade association, passionately advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail thrive. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, contributing $3.9 trillion to annual GDP and supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 52 million working Americans. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies.