Alston & Bird Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Alston & Bird has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, information technology, finance, operations, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Alston & Bird focuses on delivering comprehensive legal services across corporate & finance, litigation, intellectual property, regulatory & specialty, international, and tax, shaping market impact through expert counsel.

Leadership Roles at Alston & Bird

  • Chief Executive Officer - Howard Cohn
  • Chief Financial Officer - Levinson Richard
  • Chief Operating Officer - Brian MacDonald
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Barbara Bryant
  • Chief Information Officer - Robert Marburger
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Michael Stephens
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Cathy Benton
  • Howard Cohn - Chief Executive Officer

    Howard Cohn, the Chief Executive Officer at Alston & Bird, directs the firm's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Cohn guides the firm's expansion and service offerings, ensuring alignment with market demands in corporate & finance, litigation, intellectual property, regulatory & specialty, international, and tax law. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of innovation and client service excellence across all practice areas. By optimizing resource allocation and driving business development initiatives, Howard Cohn ensures the firm maintains its competitive edge and delivers exceptional value to its clients. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to managing key stakeholder relationships and championing the firm's growth trajectory.

    Levinson Richard - Chief Financial Officer

    Levinson Richard, the Chief Financial Officer at Alston & Bird, manages the firm's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Richard oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, accounting, and financial reporting, ensuring the firm's economic stability and profitability across its diverse practice areas like tax, international, and regulatory law. This critical role involves optimizing financial performance and identifying opportunities for strategic investment to support firm growth. By implementing rigorous financial controls and driving efficiency, Levinson Richard ensures resources are allocated effectively to support client service and business development. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is fundamental to the firm's long-term sustainability and success.

    Brian MacDonald - Chief Operating Officer

    Brian MacDonald, the Chief Operating Officer at Alston & Bird, directs the firm's day-to-day operational activities and administrative functions. MacDonald oversees the efficient management of resources, facilities, and support services, ensuring seamless operations across all practice groups, including litigation, intellectual property, and corporate & finance. This leadership position focuses on enhancing operational effectiveness and driving process improvements to support legal professionals. By optimizing workflows and managing vendor relationships, Brian MacDonald ensures the firm operates with maximum efficiency and client responsiveness. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight is vital for maintaining the firm's high standards of service delivery and operational excellence.

    Barbara Bryant - Chief Marketing Officer

    Barbara Bryant, the Chief Marketing Officer at Alston & Bird, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and client engagement. Bryant oversees all aspects of market positioning, public relations, and digital outreach, ensuring the firm's expertise in corporate & finance, litigation, intellectual property, and other key areas resonates with target audiences. This role involves developing data-driven campaigns that highlight the firm's unique value proposition and drive lead generation. By collaborating with practice group leaders, Barbara Bryant ensures marketing efforts directly support business development objectives and reinforce the firm's reputation for excellence. The Chief Marketing Officer's initiatives are critical for expanding market reach and strengthening client relationships.

    Robert Marburger - Chief Information Officer

    Robert Marburger, the Chief Information Officer at Alston & Bird, spearheads the firm's technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. Marburger oversees the development and implementation of robust IT infrastructure, cybersecurity measures, and innovative legal technology solutions that support the firm's practice areas, including litigation, intellectual property, and corporate & finance. This leadership position ensures seamless technological operations and enhances efficiency for legal professionals and clients alike. By driving advancements in data management and digital collaboration tools, Robert Marburger empowers the firm to deliver cutting-edge legal services. The Chief Information Officer's focus on technological innovation is paramount to maintaining operational excellence and client satisfaction.
    Robert Marburger

    Michael Stephens - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Michael Stephens, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Alston & Bird, leads the firm's human capital strategy and talent management initiatives. Stephens oversees recruitment, employee development, compensation, benefits, and HR policy implementation, ensuring the firm attracts and retains top legal talent across all practice areas. This role is crucial for fostering a positive and productive work environment that supports the firm's mission and values. By developing programs that promote professional growth and employee well-being, Michael Stephens contributes significantly to the firm's overall success and its ability to deliver exceptional client service. The Chief Human Resources Officer's focus on people is integral to the firm's sustained performance.

    Cathy Benton - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Cathy Benton, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Alston & Bird, drives strategic initiatives focused on employee engagement and organizational development. Benton manages programs designed to enhance workplace culture, support diversity and inclusion, and optimize talent acquisition and retention strategies across the firm's extensive practice areas. This leadership function is dedicated to cultivating a high-performing workforce capable of meeting complex client needs in areas such as corporate & finance and litigation. By championing employee well-being and professional advancement, Cathy Benton ensures the firm remains an employer of choice. The Chief Human Resources Officer's commitment to people development underpins the firm's operational strength and client-centric approach.
    Cathy Benton

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Alston & Bird Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Alston & Bird?
    Alston & Bird is led by Howard Cohn (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Levinson Richard (Chief Financial Officer) and Brian MacDonald (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Alston & Bird’s executive team?
    The executive team of Alston & Bird includes leaders such as Howard Cohn (Chief Executive Officer), Levinson Richard (Chief Financial Officer), Brian MacDonald (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Alston & Bird have?
    Alston & Bird has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Alston & Bird’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Alston & Bird includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Information Officer.