Brendan Schulman Joins DJI as Vice President of Policy and Legal Affairs

Two power houses of the consumer drone community joined forces on Wednesday morning as DJI announced the hiring of notorious drone lawyer Brendan Schulman. Easily the most prominent figure in the ongoing discussion of drone regulations, Schulman adds a necessary branch to the worlds largest consumer drone manufacturer in his role of Vice President of Policy and Legal Affairs.

“The next few years will be critical in setting the direction for unmanned aerial regulations, so we need a policy executive who shares our vision for UAS operation that is both accessible and safe,”Frank Wang, CEO and founder of DJI, said in the press release.”Brendan is the perfect fit to drive forward this vision which will enable our customers to expand the use of aerial technology for creative and innovative purposes.”

Formerly of Kramer, Levin, Naftalis & Frankel, Schulman is best known for his work as the primary counsel in the case of Raphael Pirker in which the FAA levied a $10,000 fine against Pirker, a private drone operator, for shooting a promotional video at the University of Virginia with his drone for “pocket money.”

After a protracted battle, Schulman negotiated a $1,100 settlement.

“As the leader in the unmanned aerial space, DJI has set the standard for how this new technology is used,” said Mr. Schulman. “I am excited to join their passionate team and to work together with lawmakers, industry groups, and customers to find solutions to emerging policy questions and to open up the benefits of drone technology across industries.”