## From Manual to Automated: Building Privacy Programs That Scale

Ron De Jesus is the Field Chief Privacy Officer at Transcend, driving practical privacy governance and industry advocacy. He previously led privacy at Grindr, Tinder, and Match Group, built global programs at Tapestry and American Express, founded De Jesus Consulting, and remains an active community leader through the IAPP and LGBTQ Privacy & Tech Network.

### Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

- Ron De Jesus shares his career journey in privacy, from consulting to privacy leadership at companies like Grindr, Tinder, and Transcend
- Overview of the unique Field Chief Privacy Officer (CPO) role at Transcend
- The challenges privacy teams face when they rely on manual processes, and how automation enhances program efficiency
- Factors that contribute to successful privacy technology implementations
- Misconceptions about privacy compliance tools and the importance of reviewing and testing vendor software solutions
- Predictions for what’s in store for privacy professionals in 2026
- Ron’s personal privacy tip

### In this episode…  
Privacy professionals navigate a growing web of privacy regulations and emerging technologies, yet many still rely on manual processes to manage their programs. Teams might track global requirements in spreadsheets and manually triage privacy rights requests. To scale privacy programs effectively, teams need to move beyond manual approaches. So what should privacy teams consider as they adopt automated solutions?

The key to scaling privacy programs efficiently lies in embracing automation and technology that aligns with an organization’s broader goals. When privacy leaders secure early buy-in from stakeholders, technology decisions are more likely to support the business beyond basic compliance needs. Teams also need clarity on what they are trying to accomplish, a thorough understanding of where their data lives, and time to evaluate how new tech fits into their existing systems and workflows.

### Resources Mentioned in this episode
- [Jodi Daniels on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodihoffmandaniels/)
- [Justin Daniels on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinsdaniels/)
- [Red Clover Advisors’ website](/content/site-root.html)
- [Data Reimagined: Building Trust One Byte at a Time](/content/book-sales/index.html)
- Ron De Jesus: [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rondejesus/)

### In 2026...  
Privacy professionals will have a much better sense and confidence in building their programs to address the needs of AI initiatives. More companies will establish their AI governance programs based on insights gained over the previous years from their peers.

### Ron's Privacy Tip  
Regularly clean your digital footprint and educate your friends and colleagues about privacy practices. When dealing with social media, ensure they comprehend their privacy settings and rights.