This content was published prior to the combination of Dentons Davis Brown. Learn more about Dentons Davis Brown. 

John Pietila was elected by his peers to serve as the firm’s new president beginning January 1, 2019. John, currently chair of the Telecommunications Department, had previously served on the firm’s Board of Directors from 2012-2017 including terms as Secretary and Vice-President.

John replaces Gene La Suer in the role, which he has held since 2013. In his six years as president of the board, Gene oversaw a number of firm initiatives including establishing a plan for client and lawyer succession, establishing a firm wellness program, and working to ensure growth and development for all lawyers in the Firm. “Davis Brown continues to be the best environment for lawyers to collaborate to obtain the best results for our clients. We work together, like each other and have a common goal of client service. I am confident the future is bright for the firm, its clients, and all who work there.” 

Following his election, John discussed the Firm’s focus on client experience. “Change is critical to the success of any organization. We recognize the market for legal services continues to evolve, driven by changes in client needs, processes, and technology. While embracing these changes, our focus remains on delivering first-class results for our clients – in terms of legal outcomes, speed, and cost. Looking ahead, I am excited to work side-by-side with so many experienced and talented attorneys who are innovators and leaders in our market.”

In addition, Mike Richards was re-elected to the 2019 Board where he joins Chris Jannes, Scott Brennan, and Courtney Strutt Todd. Associate and special counsel attorneys also voted Maggie Hanson to serve as their representative to the Board.

Shareholders also voted to promote two of their colleagues to shareholder: Matt Coryell, intellectual property attorney, and Ryan Haaland, a business attorney practicing in the firm’s Ames office.