Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP announced today that Kelly Stevens has joined the Firm as Chief Operating Officer. She succeeds Michael Hersch, who is retiring from Simpson Thacher after serving in the role for more than 20 years.
“We are deeply grateful to Michael for his considerable contributions to the remarkable success of Simpson Thacher during his time here,” said Bill Dougherty, Chairperson of Simpson Thacher's Executive Committee. “Kelly has valuable leadership experience in both the legal and financial industries, and we are very pleased to have her join the Firm.”
Kelly joins from another international law firm, where she served as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to that, she held several leadership roles at Lehman Brothers/Barclays Capital, including Chief Operating Officer for the Global Financial Institutions Group and Chief Administrative Officer for the Global Finance Group. She was also a leader in the bank’s diversity programs, including serving as a member of the Investment Bank Diversity Committee and Co-Chair of Lehman Employees of African Descent.
“It has been a pleasure to have served as the Executive Director of Simpson Thacher over the last two decades, and I feel fortunate that I have had the opportunity to collaborate with such wonderful and talented colleagues. Kelly is an outstanding leader known for her strategic insight, and I can think of no better person to guide the Firm’s operations as we continue to grow and evolve,” said Michael.
Kelly said, “Simpson Thacher is among the world’s most respected law firms, known not only for its premier legal advice and market-leading work, but also for its collegial culture. I am looking forward to partnering with the Firm’s lawyers and professional staff to ensure Simpson Thacher’s ongoing success.”
Kelly is also on the Board of Directors of The Door. She received her A.B. from Harvard College and her M.B.A. from Columbia University.
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