Attorney Intel is pleased to announce The Top 50 Attorneys of Connecticut for 2023. Connecticut is something of a wonderland for lawyers to practice their chosen profession. For many years, the state has been able to attract some of the world's top legal minds with its vibrant legal market, which is strategically positioned right next to the legal powerhouses of New York City and Boston. On top of that, the Constitution State's robust economy means that attorneys have ample opportunity to specialize in a wide range of areas such as corporate law, contract law, and intellectual property, among others. Moreover, the state's well-developed legal infrastructure and esteemed law schools further contribute to a highly competent pool of legal professionals. The recipients of this year's awards span across diverse industries, including energy, healthcare, consumer products, IT, entertainment, and beyond. These remarkable individuals have distinguished themselves from their counterparts through their tireless efforts, unwavering commitment, and unparalleled expertise. Their outstanding work and dedication have truly made them stand out among their peers.
Among this year’s awardees is Jonathan Mothner, the EVP, General Counsel, and Secretary of Synchrony, one of the nation’s premier consumer financial services companies. Notably, Mothner played an instrumental role in Synchrony’s 2014 IPO and its separation from GE in 2015. Awardee Ryan LaForce is a Partner at Goodwin’s Private Equity and Technology groups. Well acquainted with major transactions, LaForce previously served as Assistant General Counsel of Bain Capital, an alternative asset firm with over $70 billion assets under management. Also awarded is Dr. Orlando Lopez, a Partner at Culhane Meadows, where he leverages his doctorate in electrical engineering and more than 25 years of experience at various high technology companies. In fact, Lopez has drafted and prosecuted over 300 U.S. patent applications during his illustrious career.
Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Attorneys of Connecticut for 2023.
1. Janet Link
Senior Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary, Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.
Janet Link is Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary for Stanley Black & Decker, where she is responsible for all legal and corporate compliance matters. Headquartered in the USA, Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) is a worldwide leader in tools and outdoor operating manufacturing facilities worldwide. Guided by its purpose – for those who make the world – the company boasts more than 50,000 employees
Prior to joining Stanley Black & Decker in June 2017, Link served as EVP, General Counsel at J.C. Penney Company. Before that, she was the deputy general counsel at Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, and CC Media Holdings (now known as iHeartMedia) and a partner at Latham & Watkins. She began her legal career with a U.S. District Court clerkship in the Central District of California, followed by a clerkship with the Honorable James R. Browning, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth District. Link earned her bachelor’s in English from Yale University and her JD from Columbia University School of Law.
2. Alan Zoccolillo
Partner, Baker McKenzie
Alan Zoccolillo is a Partner at Baker McKenzie, a global law firm renowned for its extensive reach and expertise in various legal disciplines. Founded in 1949, the firm operates in over 77 offices across 46 countries, making it one of the largest law firms in the world. With a strong emphasis on cross-border transactions, Baker McKenzie offers a wide range of legal services, including corporate law, banking and finance, intellectual property, tax, and dispute resolution.
Zoccolillo first joined the firm in 2005. Previously, he was an associate at Coudert Brothers. Zoccolillo earned a JD/MBA from the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University and an undergraduate degree in history from Wake Forest University.
3. Nicholas Seminara
Claim General Counsel & Senior Vice President, Travelers
Nicholas Seminara is Executive Vice President and Chief Claim Officer for Travelers. He has responsibility for all Claim functions. Previously, he held senior-level roles in the company’s Bond, Surety and Claim organizations. Seminara holds an MBA and JD. from Fordham University.
Travelers provides insurance coverage to protect the things that are important to you – your home, your car, your valuables and your business. They have been around for more than 165 years and have earned a reputation as one of the best property casualty insurers in the industry. Every day, their approximately 30,000 employees and 13,500 independent agents and brokers in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Ireland help provide peace of mind to their customers.
Nicholas Seminara's Insight
“My years working as an in-house attorney and legal officer has prepared me well for the challenges of leading Travelers’ 12,000 claim and legal professionals.”
4. John Reiss
Partner, DLA Piper
John Reiss began his professional career 23 years ago. Today, he is the Partner of DLA Piper, a global law firm capable of taking care of the most important legal needs of clients wherever they do business. With offices throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, they represent more clients in a broader range of geographies and practice disciplines than virtually any other law firm in the world.
Reiss first got his start in 2007 as an associate at Shearman & Sterling LLP, his most recent position prior to joining DLA Piper. He graduated from Fordham University School of Law with a JD and from Fordham University with an undergraduate degree in business administration and American studies.
5. Guido Liniado
Partner, Latham & Watkins
Guido Liniado is a Partner of Latham & Watkins, a prominent international law firm. Founded in 1934, the firm has grown to become one of the largest and most respected legal practices worldwide. With offices in major financial centers across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Latham & Watkins offers a comprehensive range of legal services to corporations, financial institutions, and governments. The firm's areas of expertise span numerous industries, including corporate law, finance, litigation, intellectual property, and regulatory matters.
Liniado began his career in 2005. Before joining Latham & Watkins, he was a partner at Clifford Chance. Before that, he served as an international lawyer at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP. Earlier in his career, he worked with Bruchou, Fernández Madero & Lombardi as an associate. Liniado graduated from the University of Buenos Aires with a JD and from Columbia Law School with an LLM in corporate law.
6. Nora Lafreniere
Executive Vice President & General Counsel, Otis Elevator Co.
As Executive Vice President & General Counsel for Otis Elevator Co., Nora Lafreniere is a champion for doing the right thing, upholding the reputation and integrity of this 170-year-old company. She leads its Legal organization. She is responsible for her company’s Ethics & Compliance, Environmental Health & Safety, and Quality functions. Notably, Otis Elevator is the world’s leading elevator and escalator manufacturing, installation and service company. They move 2 billion people a day and maintain approximately 2.2 million customer units worldwide, the industry’s largest Service portfolio. Headquartered in Connecticut, USA, Otis is 69,000 people strong, including 41,000 field professionals.
Lafreniere has spent the past two decades with Otis and United Technologies Corporation (UTC), Otis’ former parent company. During that time, she held several roles of increasing responsibility – starting as Assistant Counsel for Otis North and South America, and later serving as Vice President and General Counsel for both UTC Building & Industrial Systems and UTC Climate Controls & Security. Lafreniere holds a bachelor’s in philosophy and political science from the University of California-San Diego, and a JD from the University of Notre Dame.
Nora Lafreniere's Insight
“I reflect upon my first Otis job a lot – working as a lawyer supporting branches in the southeast U.S. exposed me to the reality of how we succeed – our teams take pride in servicing individual customers and meeting their diverse needs.”
7. Pia Friis
General Counsel, MUFG
Pia Friis began her professional career 33 years ago. Today, she is the General Counsel of MUFG, one of the world's leading financial groups. Headquartered in Tokyo and with over 360 years of history, MUFG has a global network with over 2,100 locations in more than 50 markets, including the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Asia and Oceania. The Group has over 160,000 employees and offers services including commercial banking, trust banking, securities, credit cards, consumer finance, asset management, and leasing.
Frviis first got her start in 1990 as a lawyer at Bech-Bruun. From there, she went on to Sidley Austin, before eventually rising to managing director, head of regulatory risk and trading products at BMO Capital Markets, her most recent position prior to joining MUFG. Friis graduated from Københavns Universitet - University of Copenhagen with a JD. She also graduated from New York University School of Law with an LLM in corporate and bankruptcy law.
8. Greg Ruffa
General Counsel, AIG
Greg Ruffa is the General Counsel of American International Group, Inc. (AIG), a leading global insurance organization. AIG member companies offer insurance solutions that help businesses and individuals in approximately 70 countries and jurisdictions protect their assets and manage risks. AIG common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Ruffa first joined the company in 1996. He earned a JD from Duke University School of Law and an undergraduate degree in history from Princeton University.
9. Timothy Harkness
Partner, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer US LLP
Timothy Harkness is a Partner at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer US LLP, a global law firm with a long-standing track record of successfully supporting the world's leading national and multinational corporations, financial institutions and governments on ground-breaking and business-critical mandates. Their 2,800+ lawyers deliver results worldwide through their own offices and alongside leading national firms. The law firm maintains offices in Austria, China, England, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Spain, the UAB, and the U.S., among many other countries.
Notably, Harkness has 27 years of experience. Before joining Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer US LLP, he served as a partner at Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP. Before that, he was an associate at Davis Polk & Wardwell. Harkness graduated from the University of Michigan Law School with a JD and from Yale University with an undergraduate degree in literature.
Timothy Harkness' Insight
“Helping clients manage the last few turbulent years has been very rewarding. I expect the next few years to be just as challenging. Disruption brings disputes, and I enjoy helping clients navigate new developments and changes to their businesses and markets.”
10. John Mancini
Partner, Mayer Brown
John Mancini is a Partner in Mayer Brown’s New York office and a member of the global Intellectual Property practice, which was named IP Practice Group of the Year for 2017 and 2020 by Law360. Mancini has served in various firm management roles, including, current global co-chair of the Technology Industry Group, prior tenure as global co-chair of the Intellectual Property practice. He is also a past member of the firm’s Global Partnership Board. Mancini’s practice focuses on litigating copyright, trademark, trade dress, trade secret and patent disputes in courts across the country–as well as before the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB), the U.S. International Trade Commission , the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and the USPTO Trademark Trial & Appeal Board.
With extensive reach across four continents, Mayer Brown is the only integrated law firm in the world with approximately 200 lawyers in each of the world’s three largest financial centers—New York, London and Hong Kong—the backbone of the global economy. They have deep experience in high-stakes litigation and complex transactions across industry sectors, including their signature strength, the global financial services industry. Notably, Mancini graduated from Georgetown University with a JD and from Fairfield University with an undergraduate degree in history and political science.
12. Hilary Glassman
Senior Vice President & General Counsel, Frontier Communications
Hilary Glassman is the Senior Vice President & General Counsel of Frontier Communications, a leading communications provider offering gigabit speeds to empower and connect millions of consumers and businesses in 25 states. It is building critical digital infrastructure across the country with its 100% fiber-optic network and cloud-based solutions, enabling connections today and future proofing for tomorrow.
Glassman first joined the company in 2005. She earned a JD from New York University School of Law and an undergraduate degree in accounting from New York University.
13. Douglas Ryder
Partner, Kirkland & Ellis
Douglas Ryder is a Partner of Kirkland & Ellis, a prominent global law firm headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 1909, it has established itself as one of the world's largest and most prestigious law firms. With over 2,700 attorneys and 15 offices across the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Kirkland & Ellis offers a wide range of legal services to clients in various industries, including private equity, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, and litigation. Furthermore, Kirkland & Ellis has consistently ranked among the top law firms globally in terms of revenue and profitability.
It is worthy to note that Ryder has 25 years of experience. Before joining Kirkland & Ellis, he was a Partner at Weil Gotshal and Manges. Before that, he served as a partner at O'Melveny & Myers LLP. Earlier in his career, he worked with Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP as an associate. Ryder graduated from New York University School of Law with a JD and from Colgate University with an undergraduate degree in history and English.
14. Jonathan Mothner
Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary, Synchrony Financial
Jonathan Mothner is Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Synchrony, one of the nation’s premier consumer financial services companies. Synchrony is a premier consumer financial services company delivering one of the industry’s most complete digitally-enabled product suites. Their experience, expertise and scale encompass a broad spectrum of industries, including digital, health and wellness, retail, telecommunications, home, auto, outdoors, pet and more. They have an established and diverse group of national and regional retailers, local merchants, manufacturers, buying groups, industry associations and healthcare service providers.
Mothner oversees all legal activities for Synchrony, including government affairs, securities law, labor and employment, privacy and litigation. Notably, he played an instrumental role in Synchrony’s initial public offering in 2014 and separation from GE in 2015. Prior to Synchrony’s separation from GE in 2015, Mothner was General Counsel for GE Capital’s North American retail finance business. He also served as Chief Litigation Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer for GE’s global consumer finance business. His experience with GE Capital dates to 2000, when he joined the global consumer finance business as Litigation Counsel. Mothner earned a JD from New York University School of Law and an undergraduate degree in economics from Hobart and William Smith Colleges.
15. Kris Keegan
Vice President & General Counsel, PerkinElmer, Inc.
Kris Keegan began her professional career 27 years ago. Today, she is the Vice President & General Counsel of PerkinElmer, Inc., a leading, global provider of technology and service solutions that help customers measure, quantify, detect, and report in ways that help ensure the quality, safety, and satisfaction of their products. For 85 years, PerkinElmer has pursued science with a clear purpose – to help their customers achieve theirs.
Keegan first got her start in 1996 as a business law associate at Day, Berry & Howard LLP. From there, she went on to Major League Soccer, before eventually rising to associate general counsel at Packard BioScience Company, her most recent position prior to joining PerkinElmer, Inc. Keegan graduated from Northwestern University’s Pritzker School of Law with a JD and from William & Mary with an undergraduate degree in government.
16. Hal Horwich
Partner, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
Hal Horwich is a Partner at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP, one of the largest law firms in the world. Founded in 1873, the firm maintains offices spanning North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Known for its expertise and client-centric approach, Morgan Lewis has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality legal solutions to a diverse client base that includes Fortune 500 companies, government entities, and individuals.
Horwich first joined the company in 2015. Previously, he was a partner at Bingham McCutchen. Earlier in his career, he worked with Hebb & Gitlin as a partner. Horwich earned a JD from the Boston University School of Law and an undergraduate degree from Brown University.
17. Regina Olshan
Partner & Global Head of Executive Compensation and Benefits, Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom
Regina Olshan is a Partner & Global Head of Executive Compensation and Benefits at Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom, a renowned international law firm with a prominent presence in the legal industry. Established in 1948, Skadden operates in major financial centers worldwide, providing comprehensive legal services to clients across various sectors. With its headquarters in New York City, the firm has expanded to include offices in key global locations.
Furthermore, Skadden is known for its expertise in corporate law, litigation, mergers and acquisitions, securities, and other areas of practice. The firm's commitment to excellence, client-centric approach, and notable track record have contributed to its standing as a leading global law firm. Olshan has 29 years of experience. She graduated from Yale Law School with a JD and from Harvard University with an undergraduate degree in physics.
18. David Thal
Partner, Holland & Knight
David Thal began his professional career 13 years ago. Today, he is a Partner at Holland & Knight, a prominent law firm with a rich history spanning more than 130 years. Holland & Knight operates through a vast network of offices across the globe, serving clients in various sectors, including finance, real estate, healthcare, and technology. The firm's diverse team of attorneys specializes in areas such as litigation, corporate law, intellectual property, and environmental law. Moreover, Holland & Knight has earned recognition for its excellence in legal representation and community involvement.
Thal first got his start in 2010 as an associate at Withers Bergman LLP. From there, he went on to Cummings & Lockwood as a principal, his most recent position prior to joining Holland & Knight. Thal graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Law with a JD, New York University School of Law with an LLM, and from Williams College with an undergraduate degree in English.
19. Eric Wise
Partner, Alston & Bird LLP
Eric Wise is a Partner with Alston & Bird’s Financial Restructuring & Reorganization Group, which is part of a prominent law firm headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Founded in 1893, it has grown to become one of the largest law firms in the United States, with additional offices in major cities including New York, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, and London. The firm provides a wide range of legal services to clients across various industries, including corporate law, litigation, intellectual property, and regulatory matters.
Wise is a leading expert in restructuring matters and special situations finance. He has extensive experience in complex liability management transactions, Chapter 11 matters, workouts, rights offerings, recapitalizations, restructuring, and post-petition and exit financing, and distressed debt purchases and sales. On top of that, Wise is a frequent author and a thought leader on many issues in the restructuring and finance spaces. He graduated from the University of Michigan Law School with a JD, from Claremont Graduate University with an MA in political philosophy, and from Claremont McKenna College with an undergraduate degree in government.
Eric Wise's Insight
“Clients know Eric is a leading lawyer expert on the latest trends in the restructuring world and depend on him to provide innovative advice and solutions into complex debt structuring issues. Eric has been involved in leading and market-moving restructuring cases and complex special situation finance matters for over two decades, in many industries, including cryptocurrency, e-commerce, shipping, telecommunications, health care, hospitality, real estate, steel, automotive, chemical, energy, transportation, financial institutions, and paper and forest products sectors. “
20. Bill Aseltyne
Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Yale New Haven Hospital
Bill Aseltyne is the Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Yale New Haven Hospital, a 1,541 bed, non-profit, academic medical center, and the primary teaching site for Yale School of Medicine and Yale School of Nursing. Recognized by U.S. News and World Report as a top hospital, YNHH’s faculty and community physicians practice in more than 100 specialties. The hospital has a level one trauma center, comprehensive transplant center, and both a certified heart and stroke center. The medical center also includes Smilow Cancer Hospital and its affiliated Yale Cancer Center, one of only 41 NCI designated comprehensive cancer centers in the U.S., and the largest between New York and Boston.
Previously, Aseltyne was a VP and deputy general counsel at Sutter Health. Before that, he served as a VP and general counsel at California Pacific Medical Center. Earlier in his career, he worked with Bingham McCutchen as an associate. Aseltyne earned a JD from the University of Michigan Law School and an undergraduate degree in economics and political science from Kalamazoo College.
21. Matthew Speiser
Executive Vice President & General Counsel, Stagwell
Matthew Speiser is the Executive Vice President & General Counsel of Stagwell Brand Performance Network, a marketing and advertising conglomerate that focuses on delivering effective brand performance solutions. The network brings together a diverse portfolio of companies specializing in various aspects of marketing, including research, analytics, creative services, and digital media. Through its integrated approach, the Stagwell Brand Performance Network aims to provide clients with data-driven insights, innovative strategies, and measurable results to enhance brand performance across different channels and platforms.
Speiser began his career in 2008. Before joining Stagwell, he was an EVP, general counsel and chief of staff at MDC Media Partners. Before that, he served as a VP and deputy general counsel at MDC Partners. Earlier in his career, he worked with Weil Gotshal and Manges as an associate. Speiser graduated from Fordham University School of Law with a JD and from The Wharton School with an undergraduate degree in real estate finance and economics.
22. Simon Kliegman
Partner, Reed Smith LLP
Simon Kliegman is a Partner in Reed Smith’s Global Corporate and Tax group. He advises inbound and outbound multinational companies, individuals and investment funds on domestic and foreign tax matters, including acquisitions, joint ventures, financing transactions and restructurings. Kliegman also advises companies on the design and implementation of tax efficient operating models, including the development and licensing of intellectual property, character and source of income and transaction flows.
Notably, Reed Smith is a dynamic international law firm dedicated to helping clients move their businesses forward. Now celebrating more than 140 years of service, their firm spans 30 offices with 3,000 people, including 1,700 lawyers. Prior to joining Reed Smith, Kliegman was a senior associate at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, working in the firm’s International Tax Services group. He graduated from Quinnipiac University School of Law with a JD, from New York University School of Law with an LLM, and from Colgate University with an undergraduate degree in sociology and anthropology.
23. Joseph Williams
Partner, Shipman & Goodwin LLP
Joseph Williams began his professional career 29 years ago. Today, he is a Partner at Shipman & Goodwin LLP, a prominent law firm headquartered in Hartford, Connecticut. Established in 1919, the firm has grown to become one of the largest in the region. With additional offices in Stamford, Greenwich, and New Haven, Shipman & Goodwin provides a wide range of legal services to clients, including corporate law, litigation, labor and employment, real estate, and intellectual property.
In terms of education, Williams graduated from Georgetown University Law Center with a JD and from American University with an undergraduate degree in political science.
Joseph Williams' Insight
“For over 28 years I have been fortunate to work with some of the best lawyers and people in Connecticut at Shipman & Goodwin LLP. Their teaching and support, and the faith that my clients place in me, has enabled me to work on a lot of interesting and challenging real estate matters in courtrooms and town halls throughout our state.”
24. Manish Shanbhag
Executive Vice President and General Counsel, US LBM
Manish Shanbhag is the EVP and General Counsel at US LBM, a leading distributor of specialty building materials in the U.S. Founded in 2009, the company operates through a network of more than 250 locations across 30 states. US LBM LLP offers a wide range of products, including lumber, windows, doors, roofing, siding, cabinets, and more, catering to both residential and commercial construction markets. With a focus on customer service and quality products, the company has established itself as a trusted partner for contractors, builders, and remodelers.
Shanbhag first joined the company in 2021. Previously, he was an EVP, chief legal officer, CCO and secretary at BrandSafway. Before that, he served as the chief legal officer at Edgewell Personal Care. Earlier in his career, he worked with Ropes & Gray LLP as an associate. Shanbhag earned a JD from Columbia Law School and an undergraduate degree in anthropology and political science from Amherst College.
25. Ryan Laforce
Partner, Goodwin
Ryan LaForce is a Partner at Goodwin’s Private Equity and Technology groups. Her practice focuses on advising private equity, growth capital and venture capital investors, public and emerging companies and entrepreneurs in complex financial and strategic transactions. LaForce was a practicing attorney at Goodwin from 2007-2011 and rejoined the firm in 2014 after serving as Assistant General Counsel of Bain Capital, LLC, an alternative asset firm with over $70 billion AUM, for two and half years.
Laforce first got her start in 2004 as an associate at Skadden Arps, before eventually rising to associate general counsel at Bain Capital, her most recent position prior to joining Goodwin. Laforce graduated from the University of North Carolina School of Law with a JD and from Yale University with an undergraduate degree in history.
26. Eric Niederer
Partner, Wilson Elser
Eric Niederer is a Partner at Wilson Elser, a leading defense litigation firm in the United States, with over 1,000 attorneys handling approximately 100,000 defense and coverage matters. He leads a team that handles cases involving health care liability, product liability, toxic torts, food contamination, pharmaceutical recalls, and more.
Niederer has extensive experience as national litigation coordinating counsel and is routinely admitted as national trial counsel across the U.S. Furthermore, he is a published author and has lectured on various legal topics. Niederer's expertise and effective representation have been recognized by industry leaders and organizations. He earned his JD from Seton Hall University School of Law and holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut.
27. Orlando Lopez
Partner, Culhane Meadows
A Partner at Culhane Meadows, Dr. Orlando Lopez concentrates on helping his clients, which range from individual inventors to large multinational corporations and universities, identify and protect their intellectual property and build their patent portfolios. Prior to becoming an attorney, Lopez had over twenty five years of experience at various high technology companies, including Polaroid, Data General, Control Data, and Science Applications, as a technical manager, program manager, engineer and researcher. As a patent attorney, he has drafted and prosecuted over 300 U.S. patent applications.
Additionally, Lopez co-authored an amicus brief that was submitted to the U.S. Supreme Court for Bilski vs. Kappos, a patentable subject matter case. He has assisted a number of his clients in monetizing their patent portfolio. Lopez also is active in pro bono work in other areas of law.
He graduated from New England School of Law with a JD, from the University of Colorado Boulder with a Ph.D. in electrical engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology with an MS in electrical engineering, and from the University of Puerto Rico with an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering.
28. Scott Posner
Senior Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary, Terex Corporation
Scott Posner was appointed Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary at Terex Corporation in December 2019. Previously, Posner served as Vice President, Deputy General Counsel and Assistant Secretary of the company since April 2012. He joined Terex in January 2004 as Legal Counsel and has held a number of positions of increasing responsibility since that time. Prior to joining Terex, Posner was an associate at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP from 2001 to 2004. Posner received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pennsylvania and his JD, Magna Cum Laude, from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law.
Notably, Terex Corporation is a global manufacturer of materials processing machinery and aerial work platforms. They design, build and support products used in construction, maintenance, manufacturing, energy, recycling, minerals and materials management applications. Certain Terex products and solutions enable customers to reduce their impact on the environment. Their products are manufactured in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia and sold worldwide.
29. Todd Angkatavanich
Partner, McDermott Will & Emery
Todd Angkatavanich is a Partner at McDermott Will & Emery, an organization that partners with leaders around the world to fuel missions, knock down barriers and shape markets. With 20+ locations globally, their team works seamlessly across practices, industries and geographies to deliver highly effective—and often unexpected—solutions that propel success. More than 1,400 lawyers strong, they bring their personal passion and legal prowess to bear in every matter for their clients and the people they serve.
Angkatavanich first joined the company in 2022. Previously, he was a principal for the National Tax Department and Private Client Services at EY. Before that, he served as a partner and co-head for the U.S. Private Client & Tax Group at Withers Bergman LLP. Angkatavanich earned a JD from Rutgers Law School, an MBA from Rutgers Business School, and an undergraduate degree in economics from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
30. Page Heslin
General Counsel & Secretary, Assa Abloy
Page Heslin is the General Counsel & Secretary at Assa Abloy, the global leader in access solutions, including locks, doors, gates and entrance automation solutions. They are also experts in trusted identities; with keys, cards, tags, mobile and biometric identity verification systems as parts of their offering. Every day, they help billions of people to experience a more open world with innovative solutions.
Since its formation in 1994, Assa Abloy has grown from a regional company into an international Group with 52,000 employees operating in more than 70 countries. Heslin began her career in 2007. She graduated from Georgetown University Law Center with a JD and from Yale University with an undergraduate degree in history.
31. Timothy Gondek
Partner, Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith
Timothy Gondek is a partner in the Hartford, CT office of Lewis Brisbois, and a member of the Professional Liability Practice. Gondek’s practice focuses on defending a variety of professionals, including attorneys and accountants, as well as defending insurance agents and brokers against E&O claims. In addition, Gondek has defended a handful of financial groups, brokers, and advisors. Established in 1979, Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP is a national, full-service law firm with more than 1,600 attorneys and 54 offices in 30 states and the District of Columbia.
Notably, Gondek has recently expanded his practice to encompass a variety of construction defect matters. With ten years of litigation experience, he has first chair jury trial experience, and has represented clients in dozens of successful mediations and/or arbitrations. In addition to his professional liability practice, Gondek has significant experience defending medical professionals against claims of medical malpractice. Gondek graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Law with a JD and from the University of Connecticut with an undergraduate degree in political science.
34. Cheryl Saban
Partner, Paul Hastings
Cheryl Saban is the Partner of Paul Hastings, a renowned international law firm with a global presence. Established in 1951, it has grown to become one of the largest firms in the world, providing legal services to corporations, financial institutions, and governments. The firm operates in diverse practice areas, including corporate, finance, litigation, real estate, intellectual property, and employment law.
Furthermore, with offices in major cities across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Paul Hastings offers comprehensive legal solutions to clients worldwide. Saban began her career in 1987. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a JD and an undergraduate degree in labor relations.
35. Michael Shepherd
General Counsel, Genworth
Michael Shepherd began his professional career 27 years ago. Today, he is the General Counsel of Genworth, a Fortune 500 provider of products, services, and solutions that help families navigate the aging journey with confidence. Headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, Genworth applies its nearly 150 years of experience each day to helping people navigate caregiving options and fund their long-term care needs.
Shepherd first got his start in 1996 as an associate at Rogers & Wells. From there, he went on to Hogan & Hartson, before eventually rising to counsel of M&A at First Data Corporation, his most recent position prior to joining Genworth. Shepherd graduated from the University of Chicago Law School with a JD and from Stanford University with an undergraduate degree in history.
36. David Vann
Partner, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
David Vann is a Partner at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, one of the world’s leading international law firms. The firm was established in 1884 and now has more than 1,000 lawyers. Headquartered in New York with offices in Beijing, Brussels, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Palo Alto, São Paulo, Tokyo and Washington, D.C., Simpson Thacher & Bartlett provides coordinated legal advice and transactional capability to clients around the globe.
Vann first joined the company in 1991. He earned a JD from Cornell Law School and an undergraduate degree in history from Wesleyan University.
37. Lawton Camp
Partner, Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP
Lawton Camp is a Partner at Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP, a law firm that combines sophisticated regulatory, litigation, and transactional capabilities to resolve clients' most complex issues. With over 1,000 lawyers practicing in 14 offices worldwide, they offer deep industry experience and an integrated approach that spans more than 40 practice areas. Through multidisciplinary collaboration and focused industry experience, they provide innovative and effective solutions to mitigate risks, address challenges, and achieve successful outcomes.
Camp, who began his career in 1994, has 29 years of experience. Before joining Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP, he was a partner at Allen & Overy LLP. Before that, he served as a partner at Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP. Camp graduated from the Boston University School of Law with a JD and from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with an undergraduate degree in political science.
38. Mark Porto
General Counsel, EMCOR Mechanical Services
Mark Porto began his professional career 21 years ago. Today, he is the General Counsel at EMCOR Mechanical Services, one of the three divisions of EMCOR Group, Inc. Furthermore, it is comprised of approximately 27 operating companies throughout the United States in four segments that specialize in (i) HVAC service, repair, and new construction, (ii) government services, (iii) national accounts service and support, (iv) site-based services/facilities management, and (iv) industrial maintenance, upgrade/retro-fit, and construction.
Porto got his start in 2002 as an associate for the commercial litigation department at Day Pitney LLP. He graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Law with a JD and from Yale University with an undergraduate degree in psychology.
39. Eric Allen
General Counsel & Secretary, Russell Reynolds Associates
Eric Allen is the General Counsel and Secretary of Russell Reynolds Associates. He is responsible for all legal matters, including issues relating to corporate governance, risk management, ethics, data privacy, intellectual property, and group structure. He advises the firm on employment laws and practices around the world. A global leadership advisory firm, Russell Reynolds Associates boasts 600+ consultants in 47 offices. It works with public, private, and nonprofit organizations across all industries and regions.
Prior to joining RRA, Allen was the chief legal officer at the international private equity firm Hicks Muse Tate & Furst. Prior to Hicks Muse, he was the associate general counsel of Syntroleum Corporation, where he negotiated and drafted major business agreements for this publicly traded alternative energy company. He previously was an attorney at ConocoPhillips and Baker Botts. Allen holds an AB in history from Stanford University and a JD from Southern Methodist University’s Dedman School of Law, where he was managing editor of the law review.
40. Eric Brunstad
Partner, Dechert
Eric Brunstad is a Partner of Dechert, a global law firm focused on sectors with the greatest complexities, legal intricacies and highest regulatory demands. They excel in delivering practical commercial judgment and deep legal expertise for high-stakes matters. In an increasingly challenging environment, clients look to them to serve them in ways that are faster, sharper and leaner without compromising excellence.
Brunstad first joined the company in 2009. Previously, he was a partner at Bingham McCutchen. Brunstad earned a JSD and an LLM from Yale Law School and a JD from the University of Michigan Law School.
41. Hoyt Webb
Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Legrand
Hoyt Webb is the Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Legrand, a global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures. Its comprehensive offering of solutions for commercial, industrial and residential markets makes it a benchmark for customers worldwide. The group harnesses technological and societal trends with lasting impacts on buildings with the purpose of improving life by transforming the spaces where people live, work and meet with electrical, digital infrastructures and connected solutions that are simple, innovative and sustainable.
Webb began his career in 1993. Before joining Legrand, he was a staff counsel at IBM. Before that, he served as a director of strategic planning, general counsel and interim CFO at iConnect.com. Earlier in his career, he worked with Sidley Austin as a senior associate. Webb graduated from Columbia Law School with a JD, from Columbia Business School with an MBA, and from the University of Pennsylvania with an undergraduate degree in international relations and law.
42. Alison Wice
Partner, Jackson Lewis
Alison Wice is a Partner in the Hartford, Connecticut, office of Jackson Lewis P.C., where she represents management exclusively in workplace law and related advice, counsel and training. Additionally, Wice is a member of the firm’s national Disability, Leave and Health Management Practice Group; and is a member of its Corporate Governance & Internal Investigations Practice Group. Since joining Jackson Lewis in September 2003, and throughout her career, Wice has represented employers in state and federal trial, appellate and administrative proceedings throughout the U.S. involving the full spectrum of substantive issues covered by the firm's employment law practice. She provides advice and counsel to corporate clients on a variety of employment and employee relations claims, including discrimination, sexual, age, disability and racial harassment, among others.
Focused on labor and employment law since 1958, Jackson Lewis P.C.’s 950+ attorneys, located in major cities nationwide, consistently identify and respond to new ways workplace law intersects business. Notably, Wice graduated from Emory University School of Law with a JD and from the University of Pennsylvania with an undergraduate degree in history and political science.
43. John Shutkin
General Counsel, Shearman & Sterling LLP
John Shutkin began his professional career 25 years ago. Today, he is the General Counsel at Shearman & Sterling LLP, a law firm with over 700 lawyers around the world speaking more than 65 languages and practicing U.S., English, EU, French, German, Hong Kong, OHADA, Dubai International Financial Centre, and Abu Dhabi Global Market law. Furthermore, these lawyers work closely with affiliated partnerships in Italy and Saudi Arabia, working with local law capabilities in those jurisdictions.
Notably, Shutkin first got his start in 1998 as a general counsel at Kodak Polychrome. He eventually rose to general counsel at KPMG International, his most recent position prior to joining Shearman & Sterling LLP. Additionally, Shutkin graduated from Harvard University.
44. Michael Glynn
Partner, Fox Rothschild LLP
Michael Glynn is a Partner at Fox Rothschild LLP, an AmLaw 100 full-service law firm built to serve businesses of all sizes as well as individuals. Over the past 100 years, they have grown to 1,000 lawyers with offices coast to coast. Their lawyers provide a full range of legal services to public and private companies – from family-run businesses to multinational corporations – centered around several core areas: corporate, employee benefits, entertainment, financial restructuring and bankruptcy, intellectual property, labor and employment, litigation, real estate and taxation and wealth planning.
Glynn first joined the company in 2016 as an associate. Previously, he was an associate at Kenyon & Kenyon LLP. Before that, he served as a laboratory supervisor at Yale University School of Medicine. Glynn earned a JD from Fordham University School of Law, a PhD in human genetics from the University of Michigan, and an MS in microbiology from the University of Connecticut.
45. Cullen Guilmartin
Partner, Gordon & Rees
Cullen Guilmartin is a Partner in the Connecticut office of Gordon & Rees, LLP and handles a wide range of litigation matters, including defending claims against manufacturers of complex commercial machinery, medical devices, consumer products and pharmaceuticals. He has handled complex personal injury suits involving alleged catastrophic injuries, including wrongful death and survivorship claims. Guilmartin also advises and represents clients on a variety of product liability law issues with a particular emphasis in the areas of product recalls and product safety.
Founded in 1974, Gordon & Rees has grown to become one of the largest and most respected firms in the country, with offices in numerous cities across the nation. The firm specializes in a wide range of practice areas, including litigation, corporate law, employment law, intellectual property, and environmental law. Notably, Guilmartin has taken an active role as coordinating liaison counsel for over 100 law firms and 150 defendants in toxic tort litigation in Connecticut. He graduated from Duke University School of Law with a JD and from The Johns Hopkins University with an undergraduate degree in economics.
46. Umut Ergun
General Counsel, Bridgewater Associates
Umut Ergun is the General Counsel of Bridgewater Associates. She first joined the company in 2017. Bridgewater Associates is a premier asset management firm, focused on delivering unique insight and partnership for the most sophisticated global institutional investors. Their investment process is driven by a tireless pursuit to understand how the world’s markets and economies work using cutting-edge technology to validate and execute timeless and universal investment principles. Founded in 1975, they are a community of independent thinkers who share a commitment to excellence. By fostering a culture of openness, transparency, and inclusion, they strive to unlock the most complex questions in investment strategy, management, and corporate culture.
Previously, Ergun was a counsel at Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz and before that a corporate counsel at Access Industries. Ergun earned a JD in law from Yale Law School, a Ph.D. in philosophy from the University of Pittsburgh, and an undergraduate degree in philosophy from Yale University.
47. Rick Sobel
Senior Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary, Conair Corporation
Rick Sobel is the Senior Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary of Conair Corporation, a leading international designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded personal care and small kitchen appliances, cookware, hair brushes & accessories, cosmetic bags, and travel accessories. Conair has always been driven by a passion for innovation; it’s part of the Company’s DNA. Trendsetting products have been invented by Conair since its inception in 1959, keeping the Company always a step ahead of the competition. The company's domestic and international divisions offer a diversified mix of consumer and professional products sold in over 120 countries. The Family of Conair brands includes CONAIR, Cuisinart, BaBylissPro, Scünci, TRAVELSMART by CONAIR, and Waring. Conair’s passion for innovation gets stronger with each decade, as evidenced by the over 1,000 patents the Company has obtained worldwide. Sobel has 38 years of experience. He began his career in 1985.
Before joining Conair Corporation, Sobel was a contract attorney at Frontier Communications and before that a legal counsel at Praxair, Inc. Earlier in his career she worked with Chadbourne & Parke LLP as a corporate associate. Sobel graduated from Boston University School of Law with a JD in law and from The Wharton School with an undergraduate degree in accounting.
48. Damon Vocke
Partner & Head of Corporate and Regulatory Insurance Litigation, Duane Morris LLP
Damon Vocke is a Partner and Head of Corporate and Regulatory Insurance Litigation of Duane Morris LLP, an organization that boasts more than 900 attorneys in offices across the United States and internationally. On top of that, the firm represents a broad array of clients, spanning all major practices and industries. Vocke first joined the company in 2018. He previously served as President and General Counsel of General Re Corporation, from 2004 to 2016, where he had executive responsibilities for a $6 billion business across 30 countries.
Earlier, Vocke served as Chairman of a Lloyd’s syndicate (Faraday, Syndicate 435), Chairman of the Supervisory Board of a German affiliate (Gen Re AG) and Chairman of United States Aviation Underwriters in New York. In his capacity as Group General Counsel of Gen Re, Vocke also had responsibility for all corporate legal, regulatory, governance, compliance, company-wide compliance training, and global claims. During his career, Vocke has handled various regulatory, civil and criminal matters before the U.S. Dept. of Justice, the SEC, OFAC, and the New York Dept. of Financial Services, among others. He holds both an undergraduate degree and a JD from the University of Michigan.
49. Andrew Gifford
Global General Counsel and Secretary, Gen Re
Andrew Gifford is the Global General Counsel and Secretary of Gen Re, a Berkshire Hathaway Company. Headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, Gen Re (General Reinsurance Corporation) is a primarily direct reinsurer and is represented in all major reinsurance markets worldwide through a network of more than 40 offices.
Notably, Gifford has 27 years of experience. Before joining Gen Re, Gifford was a partner at DLA Piper. Before that, he served as a partner at Locke Lord Bissell & Liddell LLP. Gifford graduated from the University of Michigan Law School with a JD and from the University of Colorado Boulder with an undergraduate degree.
50. Thomas Belknap
Partner, Blank Rome LLP
Thomas Belknap is a Partner and Co-Chair of Blank Rome's Maritime Industry Team Litigation Sub-Committee. He concentrates his practice in the areas of international commercial and insurance litigation and arbitration, with particular emphasis on the maritime industry. His firm, Blank Rome, is an Am Law 100 firm with 14 offices and more than 650 attorneys and principals who provide comprehensive legal and advocacy services to clients around the world.
Belknap got his start in 1996 as an associate at Healy & Baillie, LLP. During his career, he’s been involved in a wide variety of domestic and international maritime, commercial, and insurance matters. He also focuses on off-shore construction, casualty and insurance issues, including negotiating and advising on relevant contracts. Belknap graduated from Emory University School of Law with a JD and from Tufts University with an undergraduate degree in English.
