The Alexander Group

Category: Completed Searches

Reed Smith LLP enhances global client engagement with the appointment of Gillian Ward.​

Gillian Ward Headshot B&W Reed Smitch LLP

Client: Reed Smith LLP | Role: Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer | Candidate: Gillian Ward

Search Consultants: Amanda K. Brady, Sarah Mitchell, Pam DeLuca​

Overview

Reed Smith LLP, a dynamic international law firm with over 1,700 attorneys across 30 offices worldwide, partnered with The Alexander Group to identify a strategic leader for the Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer role. The firm sought an executive capable of unifying its global marketing and business development strategies to support continued growth and integration.​

Key Leadership Need

The firm required a seasoned professional to align marketing, client development, and operational initiatives across its global platform. The ideal candidate needed extensive experience building integrated strategies across jurisdictions, supporting firm-wide growth, and serving as a key executive partner to the firm’s leadership.​

The Alexander Group’s Approach

The Alexander Group’s executive search team—led by Managing Director and Chief Client Officer Amanda K. Brady, Director Sarah Mitchell, and Associate Pam DeLuca—conducted a comprehensive international search focusing on senior marketing executives with a proven track record in global law firm environments.​

Our Tailored Approach:

  • Developed a tailored search strategy aligned with Reed Smith’s vision for worldwide integration and client-centric growth​
  • Identified senior leaders experienced in marketing transformation and operational execution across multiple geographies​
  • Assessed candidates for executive presence, strategic capability, and alignment with firm leadership​

Successful Placement and Impact

“Gillian is a key strategic hire for our firm as we focus on growing client relationships and expanding our presence in new and existing markets.

– Nick Bagiatis, Chief Operating Officer, Reed Smith LLP

Gillian Ward, formerly the Global Chief Marketing Officer at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP (US), was appointed Reed Smith’s Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer. She previously held senior leadership roles at Baker Botts LLP and brings extensive expertise in market development, client growth programs, and strategy formulation.​

Immediate benefits:

  • Unified Global Marketing Strategy: Gillian will oversee the integration of marketing and business development functions across Reed Smith’s 30 international offices.​
  • Strategic Growth Leadership: She brings a data-driven, client-focused approach to marketing that supports Reed Smith’s continued platform expansion.​
  • Executive Collaboration: As a key partner to the firm’s leadership, Gillian will contribute directly to high-level strategy and decision-making.​

Insights from the Executive Search Team

“Gillian brings broad experience helping global law firms design and integrate marketing and business development initiatives across practices and continents, ensuring a comprehensive and holistic approach to support growth. She will be a key member of Reed Smith’s executive team and the ideal partner to Chair Casey Ryan and COO Nick Bagiatis as they lead the firm through continued strategic growth of its global platform.”

— Amanda K. Brady, Managing Director and Chief Client Officer, The Alexander Group​

About Reed Smith LLP

Reed Smith LLP is a global law firm known for its deep industry knowledge, collaborative culture, and innovative approach to legal service delivery. With offices in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, the firm advises leading businesses on complex litigation, regulatory matters, and high-stakes transactions. Reed Smith is recognized for forging long-term client relationships and delivering forward-thinking legal solutions that support business growth.

About The Alexander Group

Specializing in executive search for law firms and financial leadership roles, The Alexander Group delivers strategic, results-driven placements tailored to each client’s needs.​Interested in learning more about our executive recruitment services? Contact The Alexander Group today.​

Hecker Fink LLP enhances its operational leadership with the appointment of Aurelie Binisti.

Aurelie Binisti HR Director Hecker Fink LLP

Client: Hecker Fink LLP | Role: Human Resources Director | Candidate: Aurelie Binisti

Search Consultant: Sarah Mitchell​

Overview

Hecker Fink LLP, a premier litigation boutique known for its high-stakes legal work and commitment to public interest, partnered with The Alexander Group to identify a Human Resources Director. The firm sought a strategic leader to oversee and enhance its human resources functions, supporting its continued growth and dynamic work environment.​

Key Leadership Need

As Hecker Fink LLP expanded its team of elite litigators and staff, the firm required a human resources executive capable of managing complex HR operations, fostering a collaborative culture, and aligning HR strategies with the firm’s mission of delivering exceptional legal services and advocacy.​

The Alexander Group’s Approach

Director Sarah Mitchell led the search, focusing on candidates with extensive experience in human resources leadership across diverse industries. The search emphasized finding a professional with the adaptability and emotional intelligence to thrive in Hecker Fink’s fast-paced and mission-driven environment.​

Execution Highlights:

  • Developed a tailored search strategy aligned with Hecker Fink’s organizational goals and culture.​
  • Identified candidates with a proven track record in strategic and operational HR management.​
  • Assessed candidates for cultural fit, leadership capabilities, and the ability to contribute to the firm’s continued success.

Successful Placement and Impact

Aurelie Binisti, a seasoned human resources professional with over 15 years of experience in media and financial services, was appointed as Hecker Fink LLP’s Human Resources Director. Prior to joining the firm, she served as Executive Director of Human Resources at OMD for Omnicom. Aurelie holds a master’s degree in human resources from SUP RH in Paris, France.​

Immediate benefits:

  • Strategic HR Leadership: Aurelie brings a wealth of experience in developing and implementing HR strategies that support organizational objectives.​
  • Operational Excellence: Her background ensures efficient management of HR operations, contributing to the firm’s overall performance.​
  • Cultural Alignment: Aurelie’s interpersonal skills and adaptability make her well-suited to foster the firm’s collaborative and high-achieving culture.​

Insights from the Executive Search Consultant

“Aurelie combines the right mix of functional skills with high emotional intelligence and adaptability to lead and thrive within this growing, dynamic environment.”

— Sarah Mitchell, Director, The Alexander Group​

About Hecker Fink LLP

Hecker Fink LLP is a formidable litigation boutique specializing in high-stakes legal matters, including white-collar criminal defense, complex appellate litigation, and public interest cases. The firm is dedicated to achieving the best possible results for clients through fierce advocacy, creative strategies, and forward-looking advice.

About The Alexander Group

Specializing in executive search for law firms and financial leadership roles, The Alexander Group delivers strategic, results-driven placements tailored to each client’s unique needs.​Interested in learning more about our executive recruitment services? Contact The Alexander Group today.​

Tony Capecci has joined Haynes and Boone, LLP as Director of Practice Innovation.

Mr. Capecci is an experienced legal technology leader with two decades of experience in legal technology and more than a decade of experience spearheading the procurement, development, and implementation of legal systems in fast-paced environments.

Prior to joining Haynes & Boone, Mr. Capecci was Associate Director, Litigation & Practice Delivery at Kirkland & Ellis. Mr. Capecci received a Bachelor of Arts in Interactive Multimedia from Columbia College Chicago.

Director Sarah Mitchell and Senior Associate Michael Doering conducted and completed this search.

“Tony has a deep understanding of the technology needs of a practicing lawyer, coupled with the leadership, intellectual curiosity, and passion for innovation needed to succeed in this role,” said Mitchell.

Haynes and Boone, LLP is a highly respected American Lawyer top 100 law firm, with more than 600 lawyers and 425 non-lawyer employees in 18 domestic and three international offices, and over 40 major practices.

The firm has grown from a two-person firm in 1970 to a global leader through its client-first focus, which informs its decisions and processes, and the collaborative nature of its people, which makes the work environment healthy and pleasant.

The firm’s culture focuses on teamwork, an environment of mutual respect, and a long-term view that supports investing in the future.

Chris Copley has joined Sjögren’s Foundation as Vice President of Marketing & Communications.

Mr. Copley is a seasoned marketing expert who drives meaningful impact in the nonprofit sector, specifically in health care, military service, and community organizations. Prior to joining the Sjögren’s Foundation, Mr. Copley was Senior Director Integrated Planning and Marketing at USO. Mr. Copley received a Master of Arts from The University of Georgia and a bachelor’s degree from Truman State University.

This search was conducted and completed by Managing Director John Mann and Associate Pamela DeLuca.

“Chris has a proven track record of driving engagement, fundraising, and brand awareness. He previously held leadership roles at the USO and the American Kidney Fund, where he led multi-channel marketing initiatives and strategic communications efforts,” said John Mann, Managing Director of The Alexander Group.

The Sjögren’s Foundation is the first and only national non-profit health organization leading the charge to conquer Sjögren’s, a systemic autoimmune disease with symptoms of extensive dryness, fatigue, chronic pain, neuropathies, and other serious complications.

The Foundation’s initiatives, programs, and overall efforts within their mission are started, advanced, and expanded with Sjögren’s patient front and center. Sjögren’s carries a physical, emotional, and financial burden for patients, and the Foundation is laser-focused on building the awareness and support needed to improve the quality of life for current and future patients.

Tony Dorazio has joined Aither Systems as Chief Executive Officer.

Aither Systems is a growing company commercializing Energy as a Service solutions for the telecom sector. The company designs, builds, operates, and monitors microgrids, control software and related infrastructure, which optimize asset resiliency and reduce carbon emissions. Aither recently received an investment from EnCap’s Energy Transition Fund.

Mr. Dorazio is a seasoned power industry executive with more than 20 years of global experience in companies with scales ranging from utilities to distributed generation to microgrids, and he has built and led organizations focusing on solar, wind, and battery energy storage technologies. Mr. Dorazio received an MBA from Long Island University and a Bachelor of Science in Electromechanical Engineering Technology from State University of New York.

Director Leah Salinas and Managing Director Jonathan Verlander conducted and completed this search.

“Tony is a highly experienced leader who brings a unique blend of experiences to this role. The Aither and EnCap teams are excited to see the impact he will have as Chief Executive of the company,” Leah Salinas, Director, The Alexander Group. “We were very pleased to partner again with EnCap’s Energy Transition team on this search, and we look forward to continuing to support them in the future.”

Aither Systems is a growing company that is commercializing Energy as a Service solutions 
(focused on behind-the-meter energy capture, storage, and management) for the telecom sector.

The company designs, builds, operates, and monitors microgrids, control software and related infrastructure, which optimize asset resiliency and reduce carbon emissions. The company has developed multiple promising product lines and is in the initial stages of commercialization with a major telecom provider.

Brian Gross has been named Chief Operating Officer at Morrison & Foerster LLP.

Mr. Gross is a proven strategic and operational leader in the professional services industry.

Prior to joining MoFo, Mr. Gross was Managing Director, Partner, and Chief Operating Officer in North America for the global firm Boston Consulting Group. He started at BCG as a Consultant and Project Leader before turning his talents and passion for combining operations and people to internal management roles.

Mr. Gross received an MBA from the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley and a BA in Business and Marketing from the University of Puget Sound.

Managing Director John Lamar and Director Sarah Mitchell conducted and completed this search.

“Brian has the executive presence, modern leadership style, and strategic vision to lead MoFo successfully through the challenges and opportunities ahead in the legal industry,” said John Lamar, Managing Director of The Alexander Group.

Brad Bonneau has been named Chief Financial Officer at Wiley Rein LLP. Mr. Bonneau is a seasoned professional with a proven track record leading financial strategy and operations for successful, growing professional services organizations.


Prior to joining Wiley Rein LLP, Mr. Bonneau was CFO for Chapman and Cutler LLP. Mr. Bonneau received an MBA from Purdue University-Krannert School of Management and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Northern Illinois University.

Managing Director/Chief Client Officer Amanda K. Brady and Senior Associate Michael Doering conducted and completed this search.

“Brad is the ideal strategic business partner to Wiley’s forward-thinking executive team,” said Amanda K. Brady, Managing Director/Chief Client Officer at The Alexander Group.

Wiley Rein LLP is a preeminent law firm wired into Washington. The firm advises Fortune 500
corporations, trade associations, and individuals in all industries on legal matters converging at the intersection of government, business, and technological innovation.

The firm’s attorneys and public policy advisors are highly respected and have nuanced insights into the mindsets of agencies, regulators, and lawmakers. In 2023, the firm celebrated its 40th anniversary.

Wiley has evolved from a firm of 39 attorneys –founded in 1983 with a primary focus in Communications and Litigation – to one with more than 260 lawyers and advisors that is globally known for its work in a wide range of practices.

Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP strengthens firmwide talent strategy with the appointment of Lisa Featherson.

The logos of The Alexander Group and Katten with a headshot of Lisa Featherstone.

Client: Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP | Role: Chief Talent Officer | Candidate: Lisa Featherson

Executive Search Consultants: John Lamar, Sarah Mitchell, Pamela DeLuca

Overview

Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP, a leading international law firm with a strong presence across eight global offices, engaged The Alexander Group to lead the search for a Chief Talent Officer. The firm required a proven executive to drive firmwide strategic initiatives related to executive search, retention, professional development, and overall talent performance.

Key Leadership Need

Katten sought a high-impact executive capable of elevating its talent function across legal and business services. The firm needed a leader with experience managing talent strategy at scale, aligning cultural values with firm objectives, and fostering a best-in-class experience for attorneys and staff alike.

The Alexander Group’s Approach

Drawing on deep expertise in legal executive search, Managing Directors John Lamar, Sarah Mitchell, and Pamela DeLuca launched a national search focused on candidates with a demonstrated ability to lead transformational talent strategies in global law firm environments.

Key steps included:

  • Developing a customized search strategy aligned with Katten’s firmwide talent and leadership development goals.
  • Conducting comprehensive market research to identify proven talent executives with experience in global law firm environments.
  • Evaluating candidates for strategic leadership capability and cultural fit, ensuring alignment with Katten’s entrepreneurial and client-centric culture.

Successful Placement and Impact

Lisa Featherson, previously Chief People and Development Officer, US at Norton Rose Fulbright, was appointed Katten’s Chief Talent Officer. She brings extensive experience in strategic human capital initiatives across law firms, focusing on recruiting, professional development, and retention.

Immediate benefits:

  • Unified Leadership Across Talent Functions: Lisa oversees talent development and acquisition, human resources, performance management, professional development and training, leadership programming, and other areas, ensuring a cohesive strategy across all offices.
  • Alignment with Firm’s Strategic Objectives: Her role includes spearheading the creation and implementation of a human capital strategy that syncs with Katten’s strategic objectives, enhancing overall organizational effectiveness.
  • Enhanced Employee Satisfaction and Retention: Lisa is responsible for maintaining employee satisfaction by managing benefits, fostering a positive cultural environment, and leading compensation efforts, contributing to improved retention and morale.

Insights from the Executive Search Director

“Lisa is a dynamic, strategic, and high-energy talent executive with an exceptional track record of success in large law firm environments. She is the ideal leader to continue elevating Katten’s talent function.”

 — Sarah J. Mitchell, Director, The Alexander Group

About Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP

Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP is a prestigious and dynamic international law firm with approximately 670 attorneys across eight global offices. The firm provides full-service legal counsel to a third of the Fortune 100, as well as government entities, nonprofit organizations, and individuals. Katten is recognized for its entrepreneurial culture and commitment to aligning legal service delivery with each client’s business goals.

About The Alexander Group

Specializing in executive search for law firms and financial leadership roles, The Alexander Group delivers strategic, results-driven placements tailored to each client’s unique needs.

Interested in learning more about our executive search services? Contact The Alexander Group today.

Lauren Elkhoury has joined Vinson & Elkins as Director of Pricing and Rates. Ms. Elkhoury is a cross-functional leader with extensive experience identifying and planning strategic initiatives to maximize revenue and profitability competitively.

Prior to joining Vinson & Elkins, Ms. Elkhoury Director, Practice Operations for Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP in Houston, Texas. Ms. Elkhoury received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Tulane University.

“Lauren is a seasoned legal professional who will bring years of legal project management, pricing, and practice operations experience to Vinson & Elkins. She is known for her ability to plan strategic initiatives to maximize revenue and profitability competitively,” said Anthony Ott, Senior Associate, The Alexander Group.

Managing Director John Mann and Senior Associate Anthony Ott conducted and completed this search.

Vinson & Elkins LLP is one of the largest and most successful law firms in the United States, with approximately 700 attorneys. V&E consistently ranks as one of the most profitable law firms and is ranked 25th in the Am Law 100 with respect to 2023 based on profit per equity partner.

Collaborating seamlessly across 11 offices worldwide, V&E provides outstanding client service. The Firm’s lawyers and other professionals are committed to excellence, offering clients experience in handling their transactions, investments, projects, and disputes across the globe. Established in 1917, the Firm’s time-tested role as trusted advisor has made V&E a go-to law firm for many of the world’s leading businesses and investors. 

Jeremy LeBlanc has joined Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP as Director of Technology Services.

Mr. LeBlanc has over 20 years of multi-industry, innovative information technology executive experience, including senior technology leadership roles with major law firms, investment banking, and technology consulting firms. Before joining Fried Frank, Mr. LeBlanc served as Regional Head of Information Technology for the U.S. for Withersworldwide.


“Jeremy has an outstanding record of strategic and operational information technology experience and has been a key member of business leadership with the firms he has served with throughout his career,” said Bill Lepiesza, Director of The Alexander Group.

Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP is an elite Wall Street law firm with approximately 700 attorneys in New York, Washington, DC, London, Frankfurt, and Brussels. Fried Frank’s origins date to the turn of the 20th century, and it is well known for representing global financial institutions, investment banks, private equity firms, hedge funds, real estate investors and developers, and Fortune 500 corporations.

Consistently highly ranked in league tables and legal directories, including Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500, the firm is well recognized for providing highly effective solutions to sophisticated business challenges.

This search was conducted and completed by Director Bill Lepiesza and Associate Pam DeLuca.