Matthew Axelrod Joins Gibson Dunn as Co-Chair of New Sanctions and Export Enforcement Practice

Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP has announced the recruitment of Matthew Axelrod as a partner in its white collar defense and investigations practice group, based in Washington, D.C. Axelrod will also co-chair the firm’s newly established sanctions and export enforcement practice group. This strategic hire was disclosed by the firm on Thursday, February 28, 2025, as reported by Bloomberg Law.

Matthew Axelrod transitions to this leading global law firm from his previous role at the Commerce Department, where he held the position of Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement within the Bureau of Industry and Security. His practice will be focused on white collar criminal defense, internal investigations, and compliance counseling for both U.S. and international clients.

The newly created sanctions and export enforcement practice reflects a growing need for legal guidance in these complex areas, underpinned by tightened regulatory environments both domestically and internationally. Axelrod’s experience in export enforcement is likely to strengthen Gibson Dunn’s capabilities in offering comprehensive advice tailored to the needs of institutions and executives navigating these challenges.