The Executive Committee and Board of Directors of Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP have named Roger P. Furey as the firm’s new chairman, effective June 1, 2016. Furey succeeds Vincent A.F. Sergi, who successfully led Katten for the last 21 years, having joined the firm as part of its first associates’ class in 1974, and rose to become managing partner, then chairman.
“Roger has a true passion for stewardship of the firm, and I am looking forward to working with him to build on the strong foundation Vince and others have laid to help guide us to continued success,” said Katten CEO Noah S. Heller.
Heller was named CEO in 2013, as part of a change in the firm’s governance structure to accommodate its continuing national expansion, an effort Sergi initiated to help position the next generation of firm leadership for continued success. Sergi has worked closely with Furey throughout the last several months to ensure a smooth transition.
“Roger has been a leader in the firm for many years, and his election is a natural progression,” Sergi said. “He brings to his new role the reputation, skills and experience required to work effectively with Noah as well our lawyers, staff, clients and members of our communities.”
Furey joined Katten in 2001 and most recently served for several years as managing partner of the firm’s Washington, DC office as well as a member of its Executive Committee, Compensation Committee and Board of Directors, where he will continue as chairman.
In addition to his leadership roles, Furey has 30 years of experience protecting and enforcing intellectual property rights on behalf of his clients by resolving disputes involving trademarks, copyrights, advertising and other acts of unfair competition. As chairman, he will drive the firm’s strategic vision and growth, including recruitment and client relationship management, among other duties.
“I am honored to serve as chairman of Katten,” Furey said. “Vince and the leadership team have built a tremendous firm that allows us to bring our clients sophisticated legal counsel and unparalleled client service in an environment that is true to the firm’s dynamic and entrepreneurial spirit. I look forward to working closely with Noah to continue building on that momentum. We are all truly grateful to Vince for his unwavering dedication to the firm.”
During Sergi’s tenure, Katten grew dramatically through a merger, lateral additions and international expansion, and the firm now represents nearly half of the Fortune 100 companies. He is credited with spearheading many of the forward-thinking policies that have earned Katten national recognition as a top law firm for women and a leader in diversity efforts.
Sergi will remain with Katten as chairman emeritus, focusing his efforts on the continued strategic growth of the firm, particularly in its California, New York and Texas offices.
