Several of the nation’s
most influential Big Law firms are preparing for leadership transitions as they head into 2026, signaling a pivotal moment for the legal industry. These leadership changes reflect evolving priorities across Big Law, including global expansion, competitive pressure for top talent, shifting client demands, and the growing influence of geopolitics and private capital on legal work.
Leadership transitions at elite law firms are closely watched because managing partners and chairs shape firm culture, strategic direction, and long-term financial performance. The appointment of new leaders often signals changes in growth strategy, practice focus, or geographic expansion.
Below is a closer look at seven major law firms that are placing new leaders at the helm.
Baker McKenzie Names New Global Chair
Baker McKenzie has already completed one of the most
significant leadership changes among global law firms. Sunny Mann assumed the role of global chair in October, succeeding Milton Cheng, who led the firm since 2019.
Mann previously served as head of Baker McKenzie’s international trade practice and chaired its geopolitical risk task force. Her appointment comes at a time when multinational clients are navigating increasing regulatory complexity, trade restrictions, and geopolitical instability. With more than 70 offices worldwide, Baker McKenzie’s leadership plays a crucial role in coordinating
cross-border strategy and maintaining the firm’s global footprint.
Cleary Gottlieb Transitions Leadership in January
Cleary Gottlieb Steen and Hamilton will welcome new leadership at the start of the new year. Capital markets partner Jeff Karpf is set to take over as managing partner on January 1, replacing Michael Gerstenzang, who has served in the role for nearly a decade.
Karpf’s leadership is expected to focus on strengthening Cleary’s core practices, including mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, and private funds. As competition intensifies among elite New York-based firms, Cleary’s leadership transition highlights a continued emphasis on maintaining its position among the
top global firms advising major financial institutions and multinational corporations.
Morgan Lewis Begins Succession Planning
Morgan Lewis and Bockius is preparing for a leadership transition following the announcement that longtime chair Jami McKeon will step down when her term ends next year. McKeon has led the firm for more than a decade and is widely credited with expanding Morgan Lewis’ global reach and increasing its revenue significantly during her tenure.
The firm’s advisory board is expected to begin the formal selection process for her successor in early 2026. Morgan Lewis operates under a “strong chair” leadership model, meaning the incoming leader will play a central role in both strategic decision-making and day-to-day operations across its international offices.
Wilson Sonsini Announces Co-Managing Partners
Technology-focused powerhouse Wilson Sonsini Goodrich and Rosati is also undergoing a leadership shift. The firm has named litigation partner Caz Hashemi and capital markets partner Megan Baier as co-managing partners, effective August.
They will succeed Douglas Clark, who oversaw years of steady growth and rising revenue during his leadership. The move to a co-managing partner structure reflects Wilson Sonsini’s broad practice mix and its continued focus on serving technology companies, venture capital firms, and emerging growth clients across Silicon Valley and beyond.
Munger Tolles Selects Litigation Leaders
Munger, Tolles and Olson has appointed former federal prosecutors E. Martin Estrada and Daniel Levin as co-managing partners following the departure of its prior leadership team.
Both new leaders bring extensive experience in high-stakes litigation and government service, reinforcing the firm’s reputation for elite trial work and complex investigations. The appointments highlight the continued value Big Law places on deep courtroom experience and public-sector credentials, particularly as regulatory enforcement and white-collar matters remain strong.
Willkie Farr Rotates Chair Role
Willkie Farr and Gallagher is implementing a planned leadership rotation within its dual-chair structure. Longtime chair Thomas Cerabino is stepping down from one of the chair positions, making way for private equity leader Jeffrey Poss.
Poss will join Matthew Feldman, who remains in his leadership role. Willkie’s leadership change comes as the firm continues to expand its private equity, restructuring, and finance practices, areas that have driven significant growth in recent years.
Weil Gotshal Prepares for Long-Term Transition
Weil, Gotshal and Manges is beginning a structured succession process as Executive Partner Barry Wolf approaches retirement. Wolf has led the firm since 2009, guiding it through multiple market cycles and strategic shifts.
The firm is expected to name a successor in early 2026, with a transition period designed to ensure continuity. Weil remains a dominant player in private equity, restructuring, and complex litigation, making leadership stability a priority for clients and partners alike.
What These Leadership Changes Mean for Big Law
The appointment of new leaders across major law firms underscores a broader generational shift in Big Law leadership. Firms are increasingly prioritizing global strategy, practice diversification, and adaptability in an uncertain economic environment.
As competition for top legal talent intensifies and clients demand greater efficiency and innovation, new firm leaders will face pressure to balance profitability with investment in technology, lateral hiring, and client service models. For associates and partners alike, leadership transitions often influence firm culture, compensation structures, and long-term career opportunities.
These changes signal that Big Law is entering a new chapter one shaped by fresh leadership, evolving priorities, and a rapidly changing legal marketplace.
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