Barry Ohlson

Barry Ohlson is senior vice president of Public Policy and Government Affairs for Cox Enterprises. He leads the public policy office, which represents the company’s voice in government and policy matters and works to advance Cox’s interests, reduce risk and open new opportunities through advocacy and collaboration. 

Ohlson’s team is focused on regulatory, legislative and political issues. They also collaborate with Cox company leaders, peer companies, consultants, law firms, trade associations and coalitions. 

Since joining Cox Enterprises in 2010, Ohlson has held key leadership roles, including vice president of regulatory affairs, where he helped shape Cox’s regulatory agenda. He also represented the company before federal decision makers and industry groups.  

Prior to Cox, Ohlson served as a partner at Wilkinson Barker Knauer, LLP and spent over six years at the Federal Communications Commission, where he was senior legal advisor to former FCC Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein. Previously, Ohlson practiced law with several other Washington, D.C., firms and worked at Winstar Communications. 

Recognized as a leader in his field, Ohlson is a past president of the Federal Communications Bar Association. He served on its executive committee from 2015-2024 and received their Distinguished Service Award in 2025. He also chaired the FCBA Foundation, supporting community initiatives such as scholarship programs for Washington, D.C. high school seniors. He holds a law degree from George Washington University and a bachelor’s degree from William & Mary.