Bayer AG has appointed Dr. Max Thümmel, 43, as its new General Counsel, effective July 2026. Thümmel, who currently leads the company’s global litigation team, will succeed Dr. Thomas Laubert, who departed the company at the end of March. In his new role, Thümmel will oversee Bayer’s Law, Patents & Compliance (LPC) division, reporting directly…
In a notable shift within the legal industry, Sanford Heisler’s General Counsel has transitioned to Wigdor LLP, taking the firm’s employment practice to new heights. This move underscores ongoing trends in employment law and the dynamics of legal talent acquisition across top-tier firms. Wigdor LLP, known for its formidable presence in employment litigation, is poised…
In a notable shift within the landscape of corporate legal compensation, Albertsons Companies has significantly increased the compensation of its General Counsel, elevating the total package to $10 million in 2025. This marks an increase of $4 million from previous figures, highlighting the growing importance and recognition of legal leadership in major corporations. Details of…
Focus Brands Inc., the parent company of well-known franchises such as Carvel and Auntie Anne’s, has recently announced a significant appointment in its legal department. The company has brought on board a seasoned franchise industry veteran as its new General Counsel. Jill Thomas, known for her extensive experience in legal strategies across major franchises, will…
In a notable move within the real estate investment trust (REIT) sector, Equity Residential’s General Counsel has joined the executive lineup of AvalonBay Communities as the two entities move towards a merger. This strategic consolidation seeks to create a formidable presence in the residential real estate market, merging the strengths and assets of both companies….
In a significant move within the legal sector, Phelps Dunbar has strengthened its real estate practice in Tampa with the recent addition of a seasoned real estate general counsel. This strategic hire highlights Phelps Dunbar’s commitment to expanding its influence and expertise in the Gulf Coast region. The newly appointed counsel arrives with a wealth…
Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon has taken a decisive step to stabilize leadership amid controversy by urging the bank’s top lawyer, Kathryn Ruemmler, to remain at the firm. This comes in the wake of scrutiny over her alleged ties to Jeffrey Epstein, the financier whose criminal activities have cast a long shadow over those associated…
In May, several General Counsels (GCs) from notable corporations made decisions impacting their stock holdings, including figures from Arm Holdings. These transactions are of particular interest to legal professionals and corporate governance analysts as they provide insight into potential strategic moves or personal financial decisions by key executives. Arm Holdings, a leader in semiconductor and…
The recent increase in compensation for DXC Technology’s General Counsel, William Deckelman, will see his package reach $4.7 million by 2026. This strategic decision aligns with DXC’s broader objectives to retain and incentivize top-tier legal talent during a period of transformation within the company. The increase was approved amidst DXC’s ongoing initiatives to streamline operations…
In an era where artificial intelligence continues to redefine various professions, the legal field is no exception. Lexi Lutz, General Counsel at Summize, recently shared insights into how AI is transforming the role and expectations of in-house legal teams. She emphasized that legal departments must evolve into business enablers rather than act merely as bottlenecks…
Ollie’s Bargain Outlet Holdings Inc., known for offering discounted brand-name merchandise, has made a strategic legal hire by appointing a former assistant general counsel from The Children’s Place as its top legal officer. This move underscores Ollie’s focus on strengthening its legal department amid an evolving retail landscape. The appointment involves Justin Brandon, who previously…
Traevena Byrd, an accomplished legal executive, is set to take on the role of General Counsel at George Washington University (GW) this summer, transitioning from her current position as Vice President and General Counsel at American University. GW, recognized as the largest private university in Washington, D.C., is poised to benefit from Byrd’s extensive experience…
As the legal industry continues to grapple with unprecedented changes driven by technological advancements, an innovative AI platform has emerged to support general counsels (GCs) in their evolving roles. The legal chief of a tech company, So Suite, is leading this initiative, aiming to provide GCs with enhanced tools to manage legal responsibilities efficiently. This…
Immigration attorneys are expressing concern following the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) recent directive instructing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to intensify enforcement against fraudulent asylum claims. The directive, issued on May 26, 2026, empowers ICE attorneys to pursue legal action against immigration lawyers suspected of filing false asylum applications. DHS General Counsel James Percival…
The Carlyle Group, a prominent private equity firm, has appointed Jason Klitenic, the former General Counsel for the CIA, as its new Chief Legal Officer. This move signals Carlyle’s continued focus on augmenting its legal and compliance strength as it navigates increasingly complex regulatory landscapes. Jason Klitenic’s extensive experience in legal affairs, particularly his role…
The role of General Counsel (GC) in major corporations is evolving, with compensation packages hitting new records driven by an increased allocation of stock equity. This trend reflects a broader shift in corporate compensation strategies designed to align the interests of top legal executives with company performance, a necessity in an increasingly complex regulatory environment….
The legal landscape at Starz is set for a transformation as [Disney’s Deputy General Counsel, David Y. Lee, assumes the role of Chief Legal Officer and Head of Business & Legal Affairs at Starz](https://www.law360.com/pulse/in-house/articles/2484273?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=section). This strategic appointment positions Lee at the helm of legal and strategic operations, further driving the company’s initiatives in content and…
In a significant shift within its leadership team, Keker, Van Nest & Peters LLP has announced the promotion of John Keker as its new Managing Partner and the appointment of its new General Counsel. This transition reflects the firm’s commitment to evolving its leadership in response to the demands of the modern legal landscape, particularly…
Michael Canty, a partner and general counsel at Labaton Keller Sucharow LLP, stands as a prominent figure in the world of plaintiffs’ law. Known for his unwavering commitment to holding powerful corporations accountable, Canty’s career reflects his dedication to justice and advocacy for the underrepresented. His trajectory in the legal field was fueled by a…
In May, the legal sector observed significant movement among in-house legal teams, as several major corporations appointed new chief legal officers (CLOs) and general counsels. These appointments highlight a continued trend toward strengthening corporate legal departments with experienced professionals who can navigate complex regulatory environments and drive strategic initiatives. One of the most noteworthy appointments…
The Carlyle Group, a leading player in the global private equity market, has announced the appointment of Kate Heinzelman as its new general counsel. This follows the retirement of Jeffrey Ferguson, who has held the position for an impressive 27 years. After serving under both Democratic and Republican administrations, Heinzelman’s experience brings a nuanced understanding…
Kleinberg Kaplan, a prominent New York-based law firm known for its focus on hedge funds, private equity, and real estate transactions, has announced the acquisition of a pivotal figure from one of its longstanding clients. The firm welcomed Robert Tessitore, the former General Counsel of Luxor Capital, a move that underscores the ongoing trend of…
Munck Wilson Mandala has expanded its footprint by opening a new office in Fort Worth, Texas, further enhancing its presence in the Lone Star State. This strategic move aims at solidifying the firm’s commitment to serving a diverse client base and tapping into the growing legal needs of the region. The Fort Worth office will…
In a notable development within the legal sphere, Kirkland & Ellis has announced a significant financial commitment toward enhancing its capabilities in artificial intelligence. The firm is investing $500 million into the creation of its proprietary AI platform, poised to improve how it serves clients in an evolving digital landscape. This strategic move is part…
Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP has expanded its Miami presence by bringing on board a high-profile legal expert, Enrique Ferrer, to its partner ranks. Ferrer previously served as the General Counsel for the well-known restaurant chain Pollo Tropical, and his addition is seen as a strategic move to bolster Hinshaw’s capabilities in the region. Prior to…