Gerry Oberst
Senior Counsel Global Regulatory
Languages
English, French
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Overview
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Experience
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Credentials
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Insights and events
Gerry Oberst has been practicing in the communications arena for more than 40 years in Washington, D.C., Brussels, and Luxembourg, concentrating on telecommunications and satellite regulatory matters and policy advocacy.
Gerry helps to shape communications law both in the United States and internationally, and advises clients in particular on radio spectrum matters. Gerry represents clients in major telecommunications proceedings before the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC), International Telecommunication Union, European Commission, and EU member states involving domestic and international markets. He works to obtain regulatory approval for substantial telecommunications investments and advises clients on all aspects of international service.
His focus on satellite issues keeps him in regular contact with decision makers at pertinent agencies in Africa, Europe, and the United States. Gerry also assists numerous companies in a variety of fields (ranging from medical devices to automotive) with radio spectrum matters, domestically and internationally.
Gerry has also spent time in-house at a major international satellite operator, where he managed a team of lawyers and advisors focused on global regulatory matters, and at a U.S.-based telecommunications company seeking to advance 5G, advising on regulatory and policy issues.
Previously, Gerry served as Chairman of the Satellite Industry Association and as Chairman of the regulatory group of the European Satellite Action Plan, where he coordinated the position of more than 26 companies and agencies active in the satellite industry.
Gerry is an avid writer and lecturer, publishing more than 250 articles and monographs on international telecommunications and audiovisual issues. He also speaks regularly at international conferences.
Representative experience
Worked with U.S. satellite operators on the efficient transition of "C-band" radio spectrum to terrestrial 5G services, including advocacy before the FCC and Administration and members of Congress.
Managed a global team of lawyers and advisors for an international satellite communication operator, responsible for licensing, compliance, spectrum, and advocacy matters.
Represented a South African group of satellite and terrestrial broadcasters that provided testimony before the South African broadcasting regulator and parliamentary communications committee.
Represented the European satellite industry in government regulatory committees concerning use of radio spectrum and licensing requirements.
Advised the government of Luxembourg in a dispute with another European administration over rights to use space orbital resources for a communications satellite.
Advised the European Commission on policies related to licensing of international telecommunications facilities, submarine cable landing rights, 2 GHz MSS licensing, and Ka-band satellite services.
Represented a consortium of European automotive manufacturers and equipment suppliers seeking radio spectrum for new automotive radar technology.
Credentials
- J.D., University of Virginia School of Law, 1981
- B.A., University of Kentucky, 1977
- District of Columbia