K&L Gates LLP has appointed David L. Wochner, the managing partner of its Washington, D.C., office, as the new managing partner for the United States. Wochner, who has been with the firm since 2012, brings extensive experience in energy, infrastructure, and resources law to his new role. His leadership in the D.C. office has been marked by strategic growth and the addition of key talent across various practice areas.
Under Wochner’s guidance, the Washington, D.C., office has expanded its capabilities by welcoming several notable professionals. In February 2025, Thomas Allen joined as a partner in the Energy, Infrastructure, and Resources practice, bringing over two decades of experience in the renewable, nuclear, and oil and gas sectors. Allen’s arrival was seen as a significant enhancement to the firm’s global energy practice. ([mondaq.com](https://www.mondaq.com/pressrelease/159126/kl-gates-enhances-energy-infrastructure-and-resources-practice-with-washington-dc-partner?utm_source=openai))
Further strengthening the Public Policy and Law practice, the firm added partners Marne Marotta and David Skillman in May 2025. Marotta, with a background in advising on financial services, technology, and trade issues, and Skillman, specializing in tax and trade matters, have been instrumental in providing strategic guidance to clients navigating complex legislative and regulatory landscapes. ([mondaq.com](https://www.mondaq.com/pressrelease/164808/kl-gates-enhances-public-policy-and-law-practice-with-pair-of-partners-in-washington-dc?utm_source=openai))
Wochner’s appointment aligns with K&L Gates’ broader leadership transition. In May 2025, the firm announced that Stacy G. Ackermann would succeed James Segerdahl as Global Managing Partner, effective July 1, 2025. Ackermann, who has led the firm’s global Finance practice and served on its Management Committee for six years, expressed her commitment to building upon the firm’s solid foundation to deliver new opportunities for the global team and clients. ([klgates.com](https://www.klgates.com/KL-Gates-Announces-New-Leadership-Team-5-27-2025?utm_source=openai))
Additionally, Rick Giovannelli was appointed as Co-Chair of the Management Committee alongside Michael Caccese. Giovannelli, who has been with the firm since 1996 and leads its global Corporate practice, is set to succeed Caccese as Chair after a one-year transition period. This structured leadership change aims to ensure continuity and strategic growth for the firm. ([klgates.com](https://www.klgates.com/KL-Gates-Announces-New-Leadership-Team-5-27-2025?utm_source=openai))
These leadership appointments reflect K&L Gates’ commitment to fostering a dynamic and forward-thinking environment, positioning the firm to navigate the evolving legal landscape effectively.