Washington, D.C.–based law firm, Wiley Rein LLP, strengthens financial leadership with the appointment of Brad Bonneau as CFO.
Client: Wiley Rein LLP | Role: Chief Financial Officer | Candidate: Brad Bonneau
Recruiters: Managing Director/Chief Client Officer Amanda K. Brady and Senior Associate Michael Doering
Overview
Wiley Rein LLP, a nationally recognized law firm renowned for its expertise in regulatory, litigation, and government affairs, has partnered with The Alexander Group, a global executive search firm, to recruit a Chief Financial Officer (CFO). As the firm continued to expand its national footprint and practice capabilities, it required a seasoned financial leader to optimize financial operations, implement scalable processes, and drive data-informed decision-making.
Key Leadership Need
The firm needed a CFO who could oversee all financial functions, including budgeting, financial reporting, forecasting, client funds management, billing and collections, and audit oversight. Wiley sought a leader capable of strengthening financial performance, modernizing internal accounting systems, and supporting strategic growth initiatives across multiple practice groups.
The Alexander Group’s Approach
The Alexander Group conducted a targeted national search for finance executives with deep expertise in professional services operations, particularly within the legal sector.
Search strategy highlights:
- Identified CFOs experienced in budgeting, projections, client pricing models, and audit oversight
- Prioritized candidates with a strong background in law firm accounting systems and financial reporting
- Emphasized leadership skills in managing financial teams and driving operational improvements
Brad Bonneau emerged as the top candidate based on his extensive financial leadership experience at Chapman and Cutler LLP, where he served as CFO, and his proven ability to modernize finance functions while mentoring and developing professional accounting teams.
Successful Placement and Impact
Brad Bonneau joined Wiley Rein LLP as Chief Financial Officer. He brings over two decades of financial leadership experience in the legal sector, including financial planning and analysis, budgeting, client fund management, tax compliance, and optimization of accounting systems.
Immediate Impact:
- Initiated upgrades to financial reporting and internal accounting processes
- Strengthened budgeting and forecasting accuracy across the firm
- Developed streamlined models for client billing and alternative pricing strategies
- Enhanced collaboration between finance and practice leadership teams
Insights from the Recruiters
“Brad is the ideal strategic business partner to Wiley’s forward-thinking executive team.”
-Amanda K. Brady, Managing Director/Chief Client Officer at The Alexander Group.
About Wiley Rein LLP
Wiley Rein LLP is a Washington, D.C.–based law firm with more than 240 attorneys practicing in areas such as telecom, insurance, government contracts, and public policy. Known for its focus on regulatory and litigation matters, the firm has earned a strong reputation for delivering strategic client solutions.
About The Alexander Group
The Alexander Group is a global executive search firm with offices in Houston and other U.S. cities. Serving industries including legal services, life sciences, healthcare, financial services, energy, technology, consumer goods, and nonprofit organizations, The Alexander Group specializes in delivering strategic, results-driven leadership placements tailored to each client’s needs.
Interested in learning more about our executive recruitment services? Contact The Alexander Group today.