Our Leadership

Michael Adler

Co-Founder & CEO, Aetos Legal Consulting

Michael combines elite Big Law and Big Tech experience to provide clients with strategic, actionable guidance on data privacy and AI regulation.

Michael’s perspective is shaped by a uniquely diverse career. He began his work in national security at the Defense Intelligence Agency before earning his law degree. As an attorney, he practiced at top-tier international firms, including Kirkland & Ellis and Dechert, and served in the federal courts. He then moved in-house to work with some of the world’s most recognized tech companies, including Amazon and Autodesk, as well as innovative startups. This blend of government, legal, and in-house tech experience gives him a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities his clients face.

Michael is passionate about helping businesses adopt practical strategies for long-term success. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family doing all things Disney and reading his way through the complete works of Agatha Christie.

Key Expertise

• EU & US Data Privacy (GDPR, CCPA)

• AI Governance & Regulation

• Technology Transactions

• Corporate Compliance Strategy

Education & Publications

• University of Cambridge (King’s College), Judge Business School - M.St. in Entrepreneurship

  • Juris Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Law - A Pathway for Competitive Advantage Through GDPR Compliance (Cambridge University dissertation, 2023) - white paper publication forthcoming

• Vanderbilt University - J.D. with a certificate in Law & Business

• George Washington University - M.P.A. with a concentration in National Security Studies

• James Madison Honors College (Michigan State University) - B.A. in International Relations

Member of the New York State and Washington, DC bars.

Shayne Adler

Co-Founder & CEO, Aetos Data Consulting

Shayne leverages her MBA and background in law, operations, and program management to build practical, efficient compliance programs that work in the real world.

Shayne’s career has been dedicated to understanding how successful organizations operate. After earning degrees from Columbia University and law school, she applied her skills to non-profit operations, honing her expertise in leadership, online marketing compliance, and governance. To deepen her understanding of business strategy, she earned her MBA with High Honors from the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business. This unique combination of legal training, operational expertise, and business acumen allows her to translate complex regulations into functional business processes that drive results.

Outside of work, Shayne spends her time volunteering and serving on nonprofit boards and exploring gluten-free dining options wherever she can find them.

Key Expertise

• Compliance Program Management

• Technology & Operations Strategy

• Marketing & Website Compliance

• Agile Project Management

Education

• University of Michigan, Ross School of Business - M.B.A. with High Honors with concentrations in Technology & Operations and Management & Organizations

• University of California School of Law - J.D.

• Columbia University - B.A. with Honors in Art History

• Certifications include: IAPP AI Governance Training; ISO 27001 Certification Process; Understanding ISO Security Standards for Your Organization; Cisco Customer Success Manager; Project Management