Davis Wright Tremaine is in the process of forming an internal search committee to identify its next leader. This has come into play following an unexpected decision that saw Managing Partner Scott MacCormack assuming a more low-profile role in the firm. This Seattle-based firm hasn’t offered any clarification beyond a mere brief statement released on March 13. As per the firm’s communication, MacCormack, who has helmed the firm since 2021, will continue to be associated with the firm as a partner. However, MacCormack has been unavailable for comments.
The firm aims to establish the committee in the coming weeks, primarily focusing on internal candidates for the managerial post, as highlighted by a spokesperson on Thursday. Davis Wright Tremaine endeavors to have a new leader installed by this summer’s end. In the meantime, Pete Johnson, the Seattle office head, has been called upon to fill the post on an interim basis. The firm is a highly recognized name in the litigation circles, particularly amidst notable media and technology clients such as Apple, Inc., Meta Platforms Inc., and Netflix Inc. The U.S.-based network of legal professionals comprises about 600 lawyers.
During MacCormack’s tenure, the firm saw a commendable surge in gross revenue by around 17%, reaching $563.5 million over a three-year period. Besides, he is credited with effectuating the firm’s merger with financial services boutique McGonigle manned by a 44-lawyer team in 2022. MacCormack became a part of Davis Wright Tremaine in 2008, transitioning from Heller Ehrman, and had served on the firm’s executive committee while spearheading its energy practice.
Succeeding Jeff Gray, MacCormack was elected as the Managing Partner in 2021. Interim leader Johnson has been a part of the firm’s executive committee since 2019, chairing both the partner compensation committee and the strategic planning committee.
Highlighting the importance of meticulous succession planning in Big Law firms, consultant Patrick McKenna has conveyed potential damages that could emerge if the process isn’t handled thoughtfully. Especially given the fact that a significant number of the firm’s client base is governed by partners on the verge of retirement calls for a subtle approach toward the whole scheme. He has brought forward the case of Boies Schiller Flexner, where succession issues resulted in partners and substantial clients moving out.
Likewise, we have the example of Proskauer Rose, where chairman Steve Ellis, unexpectedly stepped down due to health reasons in 2020, followed by the appointment of partner Tim Mungovan. Last year, Davis Wright Tremaine also elected a new batch of executive committee members, which includes its new chair Camilo Echavarria and Jaime Drozd as vice-chair. San Francisco-based lawyer Sanjay Nangia took over as secretary, and the firm is slated to vote for three new members for the executive committee later this month.