Netflix Appoints Clete Willems Global Public Policy Leader

Netflix has appointed Clete Willems, a former trade and economics official under both the Trump and Obama administrations, as its new chief global affairs officer, effective later this month. Willems, who previously served as a partner at the law firm Akin Gump, will oversee the streaming giant's public policy strategy and teams worldwide, reporting directly to co-CEO Ted Sarandos. His extensive background includes advising multinational companies on international economic law and policy, as well as holding significant roles in trade negotiations. This appointment follows the departures of Dean Garfield, Netflix’s former global public policy VP, and communications chief Rachel Whetstone last fall. Sarandos emphasized Willems' expertise as vital for engaging with global leaders and advocating for policies that promote Netflix's investment and growth. The company continues to seek a replacement for Whetstone to lead its communications efforts.