The legal sphere was sent into a flutter with the recent announcement from Proskauer’s Chairman, Steven Ellis, on his decision to step down from his role, largely due to health-related reasons. His resignation will take effect in April 2024, a move signaling a significant shift in the leadership of this major player in the legal industry.
Eager to assure the firm of the thoughtful consideration behind his decision, Ellis shared details of his departure through a firmwide memo. He clarified that although he would be alright, his health demands considerable attention that would invariably conflict with the demands of his role as Chair, hence the decision.
Ellis, reelected in January 2020 for his second term as chair, firmly led Proskauer through the throes of the pandemic, achieving its most financially successful year thus far in 2021. He expressed pride in the firm’s accomplishments and optimism towards its future direction.
As he prepares to step down, Ellis leaves Proskauer in a resilient position, poised for further growth particularly in high-value practices and industry leadership roles. He reiterated the firm’s reputation as the go-to for intricate, significant and innovative legal matters. To fill the soon-to-be vacant chair, Proskauer is set to hold an election in January, with the newly elected chair beginning their term in April 2024.
Ellis’s situation provides a sobering reminder for legal professionals to uphold their personal wellbeing and not to sacrifice their health on the altar of occupational engagements. As is evident in this case, health concerns can have significant implications, not just personally, but also at the organizational level, punctuating careers and instigating major leadership changes.
For more details, read the full story at Above The Law.