Arno Friesenborg

Arno Friesenborg serves as the Group Data Protection Officer for the Peek & Cloppenburg Group (Düsseldorf), a leading European omni-channel fashion retailer that seamlessly integrates its stationary stores with robust online presences and comprehensive customer loyalty programs. Having gained his professional experience in both, Germany and the United States, Arno brings a deep understanding of international regulatory frameworks to his work. Throughout his career, he has advised internationally operating companies across diverse industries, including fashion retail, manufacturing, wholesale, as well as telecoms & media. In his current role as Group DPO, Arno focuses on the comprehensive design, implementation, and operationalization of the organisation's data protection and AI management system. By integrating data privacy and AI governance into a unified strategic approach, he bridges the gap between regulatory requirements and business innovation. He regularly collaborates with a broad spectrum of internal stakeholders that range from IT-services, CRM, and online marketing teams to HR and works councils. Arno ensures that complex business activities, such as CRM, loyalty programs and AI-driven initiatives, are implemented in a compliant and sustainable manner. As a lawyer with an LL.M. in IT and Telecommunications Law, he combines legal expertise with a pragmatic, interdisciplinary mindset to manage risks across the entire lifecycle of digital business processes.