Akerman Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Akerman has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, human resources, and business development.

Driven by a commitment to client success, Akerman is dedicated to navigating complex legal landscapes and fostering innovation for leading enterprises across the United States and Latin America.

Leadership Roles at Akerman

  • Chief Executive Officer - Jacob Akerman
  • Chairman & Chief Executive Officer - Scott Meyers
  • Chief Financial Officer - Matthew Squire
  • Chief Operating Officer - David Ristaino
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Howard Janis
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Amy Mattos
  • Jacob Akerman - Chief Executive Officer

    Jacob Akerman, the Chief Executive Officer at Akerman, directs the firm's strategic vision and overall business operations. Overseeing the firm's growth initiatives, Jacob Akerman ensures alignment with market demands and client needs across financial services, real estate, and other dynamic sectors. This leadership role involves guiding the firm's expansion and reinforcing its position as a forward-thinking legal entity. By focusing on innovation and client-centric solutions, Jacob Akerman drives the firm's commitment to helping enterprises and entrepreneurs navigate complex challenges and achieve critical business objectives. The Chief Executive Officer's mandate includes fostering a collaborative environment among the firm's legal professionals and business staff to deliver exceptional results in middle market M&A and complex disputes.

    Scott Meyers - Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

    Scott Meyers, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at Akerman, spearheads the firm's governance and executive leadership. Guiding the strategic direction, Scott Meyers ensures the firm's continued recognition by Financial Times as a leader in the industry. This role involves overseeing the firm's operational framework and reinforcing its reputation for results in complex disputes and middle market M&A. By championing client success, Scott Meyers drives the firm's mission to support successful enterprises and entrepreneurs in seizing opportunities and overcoming barriers. The Chairman & Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders and ensuring the firm's proactive approach to innovation and growth across the United States and Latin America.

    Matthew Squire - Chief Financial Officer

    Matthew Squire, the Chief Financial Officer at Akerman, directs the firm's financial strategy and fiscal management. Overseeing all financial operations, Matthew Squire ensures the firm's economic health and sustainable growth. This critical role involves managing budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation to support the firm's extensive network of over 650 lawyers and business professionals. By maintaining robust financial controls, Matthew Squire enables Akerman to invest in innovation and client services across key sectors like financial services and real estate. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include providing strategic financial insights to leadership, ensuring compliance, and supporting the firm's objectives in middle market M&A and complex disputes throughout the United States and Latin America.
    Matthew Squire

    David Ristaino - Chief Operating Officer

    David Ristaino, the Chief Operating Officer at Akerman, manages the firm's day-to-day operational efficiency and resource allocation. Overseeing the integration of business professionals and legal teams, David Ristaino ensures seamless collaboration to support client objectives. This leadership position involves optimizing internal processes and driving operational excellence across the firm's practices, particularly in financial services and real estate sectors. By focusing on scalable solutions, David Ristaino contributes to Akerman's ability to navigate change and seize opportunities for its clients. The Chief Operating Officer's mandate includes enhancing service delivery and supporting the firm's growth strategies throughout the United States and Latin America, ensuring operational readiness for complex legal challenges.

    Howard Janis - Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Howard Janis, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Akerman, supports the Chief Operating Officer in executing the firm's operational strategies. Focusing on enhancing service delivery and internal efficiencies, Howard Janis plays a key part in optimizing resource deployment across the firm's diverse practice areas. This role involves collaborating with legal teams and business professionals to streamline operations and support client objectives in complex disputes and middle market M&A. By driving process improvements, Howard Janis contributes to Akerman's reputation for forward-thinking legal services. The Deputy Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include assisting in the management of operational initiatives that foster innovation and growth for enterprises and entrepreneurs across the United States and Latin America.

    Amy Mattos - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Amy Mattos, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Akerman, leads the firm's talent management and organizational development initiatives. Overseeing all aspects of human resources, Amy Mattos ensures the firm attracts, develops, and retains top legal and business professionals. This strategic position involves fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, essential for supporting Akerman's client-centric approach. By championing employee engagement and professional growth, Amy Mattos contributes to the firm's ability to navigate change and seize opportunities. The Chief Human Resources Officer's responsibilities include aligning HR strategies with the firm's business objectives, supporting its operations across the United States and Latin America, and reinforcing its standing as a forward-thinking industry leader.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Akerman Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Akerman?
    Akerman is led by Jacob Akerman (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Scott Meyers (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer) and Matthew Squire (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Akerman’s executive team?
    The executive team of Akerman includes leaders such as Jacob Akerman (Chief Executive Officer), Scott Meyers (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer), Matthew Squire (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Akerman have?
    Akerman has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Akerman’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Akerman includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Deputy Chief Operating Officer.