John M.

Navigating regulatory and legal terrain to make well-informed business decisions in a fast-paced environment can be a daunting task. Companies need to be pragmatic and strategic in how they balance their business growth needs with legal and regulatory risks. I help dynamic companies make effective decisions intelligently and quickly, while helping these companies strategically plan and execute for future growth. I'm skilled at strengthening high-growth technology companies through strategic planning, the development and negotiation of strong commercial agreements, proactive implementation of risk mitigation through policies and controls, and creative dispute resolution. Prior to my legal career, I spent four years in the securities brokerage industry where I analyzed the equities of publicly traded companies, identifying companies that could provide innovative products or services, sound financial management, and sustainable growth. At the same time, I earned an MBA the CFA designation. After working as a corporate and securities associate for one of the largest law firms in the Western U.S., I moved in-house with an international, publicly-traded software company where I was responsible for contract drafting and negotiation, employment law, SEC compliance, IP management, and corporate governance. After more than four years there, I moved to a Internet software startup holding company, where I created the legal department for, and served as General Counsel to, multiple technology startups. I continue to advise business owners and managers on legal risks and draft and negotiate contracts related to software, services, intellectual property, confidentiality, and employment in the U.S. and internationally.