Morgan Lewis has elected David A. McManus as chair for a five-year term beginning October 1, 2026, succeeding Jami McKeon (pictured, left) after more than a decade of leadership. McManus (right), who has spent over 30 years at the firm, currently serves on its advisory board and leads the labor & employment practice, bringing extensive leadership and client advisory experience.
He has held a number of senior roles at both firm and practice level, including on the compensation committee, and has led cross-practice initiatives such as the global workforce, workforce change and crisis management teams. McManus is recognised for advising clients on complex, high-stakes matters including corporate transactions, restructurings and sensitive c-suite issues.
Commenting on the transition, McManus said: ‘I want to express our deep gratitude to Jami for her extraordinary impact’ and ‘I look forward to partnering closely with Jami… to ensure a seamless transition and build on the foundation she set forth.’
McKeon added: ‘It has been a true privilege to serve as chair of Morgan Lewis’ and described McManus as ‘an exemplary lawyer and practitioner’ who is ‘ideally suited to be the next leader of our firm.’
