Sidley Names Brian Fahrney as Executive Committee Chair, Succeeding Michael Schmidtberger.
Sidley has named veteran corporate lawyer Brian Fahrney as the new Chair of its Executive Committee, the firm announced. Fahrney, a longtime leader at the firm, will continue to serve on Sidley’s Management Committee and maintain his active law practice while stepping into the leadership role.
Mr. Fahrney succeeds Michael Schmidtberger, who has chaired the Executive Committee since 2018. Schmidtberger will stay on as a partner in Sidley’s highly regarded Investment Funds practice.
Mr. Fahrney, who formerly co-led the firm’s global M&A and Private Equity practice, brings more than three decades of experience advising clients on high-stakes mergers, acquisitions, spinoffs, and complex cross-border deals.
Mr. Fahrney’s client roster includes major public companies navigating strategic transactions, capital markets work, and SEC disclosure challenges, and he will continue advising clients even while taking on broader leadership duties.
“It is a privilege to take over as Chair of the Executive Committee and to work closely with Yvette and firm leadership to continue the growth of Sidley through our investment in our people, clients, and communities,” Mr. Fahrney said, referring to Yvette Ostolaza, Chair of the firm’s Management Committee.
“I thank Mike for his exceptional service and commitment as past Chair. He has prioritized Sidley’s culture of collegiality and collaboration throughout his career and has prepared us well for the future.”
Yvette Ostolaza, who has worked closely with Fahrney for more than a decade, expressed confidence in the transition.
“I have worked closely with Brian for over a decade, and am excited about his new role. He is a client-centric, exceptional attorney who has contributed positively to the firm since he began his career as a summer associate. We are aligned on the strategic priorities of the firm.
As Sidley continues to grow, passing US$3.4 billion in revenue last year, we will continue to provide a premier client experience for our global client base, deliver the highest quality leadership development for our people, and use our talents to positively impact our communities.”
For Michael Schmidtberger, the handover marks the latest step in a long leadership career at Sidley.
“Brian has been a leader at the firm and in the community during his more than 30 years at Sidley and I know he will continue the firm’s commitment to the values that it has cultivated for almost 160 years. It has been an honor to lead the firm in multiple leadership roles during my tenure, and I look forward to supporting Brian in his role as Chair.” Mr. Schmidtberger said.
Sidley Austin LLP is a premier global law firm with approximately 2,300 lawyers across 21 offices in key business and financial centers worldwide. With nearly 160 years of experience, the firm is renowned for delivering innovative legal solutions in complex transactional, litigation, regulatory, and advisory matters.
Sidley serves a broad range of clients, including leading corporations, financial institutions, and government entities, offering deep industry knowledge and cross-border capabilities. The firm is also deeply committed to public service, dedicating over 150,000 hours annually to pro bono work, making a meaningful impact in communities around the world.
Sidley’s longstanding reputation as a trusted advisor is underscored by its commitment to excellence, diversity, and community engagement, helping clients navigate an ever-evolving legal landscape.
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