Reed Smith Appoints First Female Global Managing Partner

By Maria Laus, Author - LawCrossing

Reed Smith, one of the world's most successful law firms, has appointed Casey Ryan as its new global managing partner, making her the first woman to hold the role in the firm's history. Ryan, who graduated from Notre Dame Law School in 1996, began her career as a summer associate with Reed Smith almost 30 years ago. She has held several leadership positions, including global practice group leader of the firm's labor and employment group and vice chair of the litigation department. For the past eight years, she has been a member of the firm's senior management team, serving as global head of legal personnel.

As a global managing partner, Ryan aims to build on its unique culture of excellent lawyering and continue delivering impeccable service and outstanding results for its clients. She plans to focus on developing innovative talent development programs such as the Reed Smith Associate Advantage, which fast-tracks the preparation of associates for future career success. Additionally, she will continue to invest in technology and innovation to ensure that the firm remains at the forefront of delivering legal services.

During Ryan's tenure as global head of legal personnel, Reed Smith expanded into six new markets and strengthened its European footprint with openings in Brussels and Frankfurt. She views issues from the client's perspective, working to deliver the best results for clients, partnering with them to understand their business needs, leveraging extensive industry knowledge to act as a valued advisor, and helping to resolve their most complex challenges.

Ryan's appointment as a global managing partner is a significant milestone for the firm. She is committed to building on the tradition that has set Reed Smith apart and evolving to meet the changing demands and opportunities that lie ahead.