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James Mann
Partner at Davis Wright Tremaine LLP
Professional Background
James Mann is a highly regarded professional in the financial services sector, specializing in helping market-leading card-issuers, processors, and various financial institutions navigate their most significant and complex deals. With a career spanning over two decades, James has established a reputation for his meticulous approach to negotiating and documenting critical agreements. From the outset, he emphasizes a mastery of relevant documents and issues, ensuring that his clients receive informed advice backed by robust expertise. James is known for his enthusiasm and collegiality, often collaborating effectively even with opposing counsel when possible. His client-centric methodology is characterized by a deep understanding of both the business and political dimensions of the deals, which contributes to the swift, precise, and effective resolution of matters.
James' expertise extends beyond deal negotiation. He plays a pivotal role in helping clients—ranging from established card issuers to emerging FinTech enterprises—tackle challenging regulatory and compliance issues. His extensive knowledge in this area is underscored by his tenure at the Federal Reserve, where he contributed to the drafting of Regulation P and key amendments to other regulations. Since leaving the Fed in 2001, clients have increasingly relied on James for regulatory guidance, particularly when designing new products and reconciling disclosures with compliance systems. He is adept at assessing compliance risk and navigating regulatory landscapes, helping institutions address concerns raised by regulators.
As a thought leader in the legal aspects of payments and finance, James is actively involved in sharing his knowledge through resources such as DWT’s PaymentLawAdvisor, where clients can access a wealth of information tailored to the ever-evolving landscape of payment law and regulation.
Education and Achievements
James Mann is an accomplished legal professional with an impressive academic background. He obtained his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Columbia University School of Law, where he distinguished himself as a Stone Scholar and was awarded the prestigious Schlesinger Prize. His commitment to excellence in legal studies firmly establishes his credentials in the legal field, making him a trusted adviser to clients navigating complex regulatory issues and high-stakes negotiations.
Prior to his legal studies, James earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Harvard College, one of the most prestigious institutions in the United States. His educational journey also included formative experiences at Cornell University and involvement in the Telluride Association, which further shaped his analytical and leadership skills.
Achievements
James Mann's contributions to the field of payments and financial regulation have garnered him respect and recognition among peers and clients alike. As a partner at Davis Wright Tremaine LLP, he continues to influence the legal landscape through his innovative approaches to regulatory issues and deal negotiations. His active participation in thought leadership, along with the development of resources such as the PaymentLawAdvisor, showcases his dedication to providing valuable insights and practical guidance to financial institutions and FinTech companies. James's exemplary career serves as a testament to his commitment to excellence and client service in the dynamic world of finance and regulation.
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