Summary: Ohio-based law firm Porter Wright announced on Tuesday that corporate and securities attorney Robert J. Tannous, who is also the current chief operating partner of the law firm will take over the responsibilities of managing partner of the firm with effect from January 1, 2015.
Porter Wright has announced after 18 years as managing partner, Robert “Buzz” Trafford is transitioning the leadership of the firm to Robert J. Tannous, the firm’s chief operating partner. Trafford will remain a partner in Porter Wright’s Columbus office and will continue to focus his law practice on complex business litigation.
Tannous joined Porter Wright’s Columbus office in 1987 and specializes in representing public companies in federal securities, mergers and acquisitions and corporate law issues. He also advises clients on corporate governance, ongoing securities reporting and compliance, proxy statements, stock exchange compliance, mergers and acquisitions and executive compensation plans.
He also counsels oil and gas clients on corporate and financing issues related to the operation of pipeline systems for the transportation of petroleum products, and the development, production, and transportation of energy resources. Currently, Tannous chairs Porter Wright’s Corporate Finance and Securities Practice Group.
As chief operating partner since 2009, Tannous has been involved with the firm’s major processes on a daily basis and will take over as managing partner on Jan. 1, 2015.
“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to lead Porter Wright to the next level,” Tannous said. “My primary goal is to build on the solid foundation and momentum the firm has achieved under Buzz’s leadership, vision and hard work.”
After taking on the role of managing partner, Tannous will continue to maintain his busy corporate securities and mergers and acquisitions law practice. “Although the leadership at Porter Wright is changing, our quality of service and dedication to our clients will be as steady as ever,” he said.
He is listed in The Best Lawyers in America® in the area of Corporate Law and Mergers and Acquisitions Law. He has also been recognized by Ohio Super Lawyers® and in 2013 was selected as one of Ohio’s top attorneys in Corporate/M&A law by Chambers USA.
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