Tinton Falls-based Commvault appointed James Hayes as its inaugural Chief Public Affairs Officer, tasking the seasoned executive with leading the company’s government and public affairs strategy across federal, state, and international regulatory bodies.
Hayes steps into the role with extensive public and private sector experience. He most recently led federal advocacy, cybersecurity policy, and emerging technology engagement for IonQ and Tenable, and previously directed the Washington, D.C., Government Affairs Office for EMC prior to its acquisition by Dell. His background also includes legislative and policy service on the staff of the United States Senate Appropriations Committee, where he focused on complex defense, civilian, and national security matters.
In his new position, Hayes will spearhead efforts to align public sector and business leaders around critical technology priorities, particularly as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and escalating cyber threats reshape the digital and regulatory landscape.
“Cyber adversaries are moving at machine speed; governments cannot afford to regulate at an analog pace,” Danielle Sheer, chief trust officer at Commvault said. “Policymakers must be at the forefront, setting clear guardrails for emerging technologies while working closely with industry to anticipate threats, strengthen resilience, and ensure innovation advances security. James brings the experience and credibility to help bridge those worlds at precisely the right moment.”
Hayes’s appointment underscores Commvault’s continued focus on data security, identity resilience, and cyber recovery as enterprises navigate the rapid adoption of AI-driven tools.
“The agentic era is transforming business at a rate that is unprecedented in our history. The need for the private and public sectors to usher in this new era responsibly and safely is paramount,” Hayes said. “Commvault is pivotal to helping organizations embrace AI boldly and with confidence, and I am excited to further relationships that will be beneficial to policymakers, customers, and partners.”
