On Monday, Bingham McCutchen LLP announced the appointment of Steven Browne, the Corporate Area co-leader of the law firm as its new managing partner. At the same time, the firm chairman, Jay Zimmerman took on the additional responsibilities of the CEO of Bingham. Browne would be working closely with him.
Zimmerman will remain responsible for the 1000-lawyer firm for matters ranging from firm finance issues, client relations, global strategy and other initiatives, while Browne will be directing the day-to-day operations of Bingham McCutchen.
Zimmerman, who has been leading Bingham since 1994, said “The new structure is a natural next step for a global enterprise operating at the highest level in a hugely competitive and dynamic world … The creation of the managing partner role makes great sense, and Steve is a terrific choice.”
Browne, who had joined Bingham in 2005 from Testa Hurwitz & Thibeault has held previous leadership roles in Bingham including that of the managing partner of the firm’s Boston office. He was also the co-chair of Bingham’s 350-lawyer Corporate Area, and is currently the co-leader of the Corporate, Mergers and Acquisitions and Securities Group.
Zimmerman said that Browne’s involvement and track-record in previous leadership roles influenced the firm’s decision to appoint him as the managing partner. He said, “At every opportunity, Steve demonstrated a keen interest in the direction of the firm and its people.” And the press release of Bingham mentioned that for Browne, the prospect of advancing Bingham in the marketplace “is the most appealing aspect of becoming managing partner.”
Browne said, “I look forward to working with Jay, all of my partners and the senior administrative staff to drive Bingham forward to an exciting future.”
He admitted, “The opportunity to play an important role in building upon Bingham’s strength across its entire 14-office network isn’t one that comes along every day.”