Event Calendar

Start Date: 5/12/2026 5:00 PM EDT
End Date: 5/12/2026 7:30 PM EDT

Venue Name: In Person - ArentFox Schiff LLP

Location:

Organization Name: WIIT

Contact:

Join WIIT for a dynamic fireside chat with Aaron Gothelf, who brings trade compliance to life from inside one of the world’s most complex media companies, The Walt Disney Company. This conversation will explore how global export control and sanction regulations shape industries far beyond defense and tech—from streaming and news to cruises, consumer products, and sports. Through real-world stories and candid discussion, attendees will gain insight into emerging compliance risks, cross-border operations, and how to engage creative teams in navigating an increasingly regulated global landscape.

Speaker:

Aaron Gothelf, VP, Asst. Chief Counsel – Global Trade

Aaron Gothelf is currently VP, Assistant Chief Counsel - Global Trade & Regulatory at The Walt Disney Company. In his role he advises internal clients on international trade compliance issues including customs, export control, economic sanctions, automation, and trade compliance program organization and execution.
 
Aaron brings nearly 30 years of experience in international trade. Aaron previously served in consulting and legal roles including as in-house counsel for international trade for General Electric, Tyco International, and British Petroleum. He also served as a trade specialist for Motorola. Prior to that Aaron was in private law practice for a boutique international trade law firm.

Moderated by Puja Mody, Co-Chair of the Export Controls, Sanctions, and National Security Committee at WIIT
 

Puja Mody is Co-Chair of the Export Controls, Sanctions, and National Security Committee at WIIT and a Government & Regulatory Affairs Executive in IBM’s Export Regulation Office.  She advises the company worldwide on their export control and economic sanctions compliance; specializing in customer eligibility, U.S. Export Controls, and Russia sanctions. Prior to joining IBM, Puja worked in export control policy and nonproliferation at the U.S. Department of Commerce (BIS), U.S. Department of State (DDTC); and Department of Energy (NNSA). She holds a M.S. in Chemistry and a B.A. in International Studies from American University

Check-in will begin at 5 pm.The discussion will be held from 5:30 – 6:30, with a reception to follow.

This event is off the record.