Video | Protiviti Legal Perspectives With Managing Director Joel Wuesthoff In the latest episode of the Protiviti Legal Perspectives podcast series, host Chad Volkert, Global Solutions leader at Protiviti, welcomes Joel Wuesthoff, a managing director in Protiviti’s Legal Consulting practice. With over two decades of experience in the legal industry, Joel brings deep expertise in litigation, e-discovery, data management and the evolving domains of data privacy and artificial intelligence (AI). His passion for providing solutions to corporate legal departments and law firms serves as the foundation for the insightful discussion on the intersection of AI, data governance and legal risk.Joel’s journey into the legal consulting world began as a product-liability attorney, where he developed an acute awareness of the harms and abuses related to technology and manufacturing. This early interest in protecting fundamental rights led him to privacy and security consulting. Over time, his role evolved into advising companies on managing risks associated with their products, services and technology solutions. As AI adoption accelerates, Joel emphasizes, the opportunities of AI are significant — but so are the risks. His work at Protiviti focuses on identifying risks, remediating them and helping clients optimize their technology to gain a competitive edge while protecting consumer rights. Topics Cybersecurity and Privacy Risk Management and Regulatory Compliance Legal Litigation Artificial Intelligence Industries Manufacturing and Distribution A critical component of successful AI implementation, particularly in highly regulated industries like financial services, is data quality and governance. Joel highlights that data quality and governance are not optional but are essential to AI’s effectiveness. With some financial services clients managing up to 500 AI use cases, standardizing data practices and enhancing governance protocols becomes a top priority. Protiviti’s approach includes developing AI risk-control matrices, creating AI-risk questionnaires and enhancing oversight mechanisms. These tools not only ensure regulatory compliance but also unlock AI’s full potential by making data more reliable and transparent.The podcast also addresses the ethical concerns associated with AI in financial services. Issues such as data bias and privacy breaches are magnified under the increased regulatory scrutiny placed on this sector. Joel explains how Protiviti helps clients proactively address these issues by establishing clear ethical guidelines such as AI charters and training programs. By embedding ethics into AI operations, companies can enhance transparency and build sustainable operational-governance frameworks.Balancing the drive for innovation with robust risk management practices presents another challenge for organizations. Joel acknowledges the inherent tension between business units seeking to leverage AI for competitive advantage and risk and compliance teams working to ensure adequate controls. Protiviti’s strategy integrates AI risks into existing risk management frameworks, allowing organizations to use AI to enhance — not undermine — risk management capabilities. This balanced approach positions companies to innovate without sacrificing regulatory compliance or consumer trust.Beyond financial services, the conversation shifts to the manufacturing and supply chain industries. AI’s transformative potential in these sectors is vast, from predictive maintenance to demand forecasting. However, the introduction of AI into legacy systems requires careful consideration to avoid disruptions across the supply chain. Joel describes how Protiviti helps clients set up governance councils, conduct AI technology assessments and embed risk controls into contracts and third-party relationships. This comprehensive approach ensures that AI adoption aligns with the organization’s overall risk profile and business objectives.A key takeaway from the discussion is the importance of fostering a culture of continuous monitoring and improvement. Organizations must develop decision trees to evaluate AI use cases, set clear thresholds for acceptable and unacceptable practices and remain adaptable as regulatory frameworks evolve. Transparent documentation, regular testing and ongoing training programs are essential to maintaining reliable and ethical AI operations.Joel’s insights underscore the critical role legal and risk management professionals play in guiding organizations through the complexities of AI adoption. By proactively addressing risks, setting clear ethical guidelines and balancing innovation with compliance, companies can harness AI’s potential while safeguarding their reputation and consumer trust. As AI technologies continue to evolve, Protiviti remains committed to helping clients navigate this dynamic landscape and leverage AI for strategic growth.The podcast episode concludes with a forward-looking perspective on how organizations can embed responsible AI practices into their operational DNA. Joel emphasizes that the journey toward AI maturity is not just about avoiding pitfalls — it’s about building a sustainable framework that aligns technological advancement with ethical, legal and business imperatives.Want to learn more? Listen to our other episodes from the Protiviti Legal Perspectives podcast to stay up to date on the latest trends and insights shaping the legal industry. For more information about Protiviti’s services, visit our website.
