Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton Elects New Managing Partner

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP has elected a new managing partner to lead their firm. Cleary, a leading international law firm for the past 60 years, elected Mark Leddy, an antitrust partner based in Washington DC, to replace Mark Walker in the managing partner post beginning in January 2011. Walker has been the managing partner since 2005. Under Walker’s term, the firm has successfully expanded in Asia, acquired an office in Beijing, launched a Hong Kong practice and is now preparing to enter the Brazilian market.

Leddy, who joined the firm as a partner in 1986 after 14 years in the US Department of Justice, said that he is committed to carrying on the outstanding work done by Walker. “I will continue Mark Walker’s strategy of thoughtful expansion, while at the same time maintaining our one-firm structure and our strong tradition of legal excellence, innovation and internationalism.” Leddy also expressed his admiration for the outgoing managing partner. “By any measure, Mark Walker has been an outstanding managing partner and leader. Mr. Walker has significantly enhanced our litigation strength in the United States and Europe.”

Meanwhile, Walker is in full support of the incoming managing partner. “Mr. Leddy impressed me with not only his abilities as a lawyer but also his strengths as a thoughtful leader.”

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP has about 1,100 lawyers spread across 12 offices. In 2009, the firm registered $965 gross revenue, a 27% increase from its 2008 revenue.