Alston & Bird Executive and Leadership Team

Brian MacDonald, the Chief Operating Officer at Alston & Bird, manages the firm's internal business processes and administrative functions. Overseeing the daily operations of the Atlanta headquarters and regional offices, the Chief Operating Officer ensures seamless coordination between practice groups. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation to support corporate finance and regulatory specialty teams. By streamlining operational workflows, MacDonald directly impacts the firm's overall profitability and service delivery standards. The Chief Operating Officer works closely with the executive committee to execute strategic initiatives that enhance organizational performance. Through rigorous oversight of administrative budgets and facility management, MacDonald maintains the infrastructure necessary for high-level legal practice. This focus on operational excellence supports the firm's mission to provide superior legal counsel across diverse international markets.

Robert Marburger, the Chief Information Officer at Alston & Bird, directs the firm's technological infrastructure and digital security protocols. Overseeing the integration of advanced legal software, the Chief Information Officer ensures that data protection remains a top priority across all North American operations. This leadership role involves architecting scalable cloud solutions that support complex litigation and intellectual property workflows. By modernizing internal systems, Marburger directly impacts the efficiency of legal teams handling high-stakes corporate finance matters. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with the Board to align technical investments with long-term firm growth. Through the implementation of robust cybersecurity frameworks, Marburger secures sensitive client information against evolving digital threats. This strategic focus on innovation maintains the firm's competitive edge in the global legal market.

Mariana Loose, the Chief Marketing Officer at Alston & Bird, drives the firm's brand strategy and market positioning initiatives. Overseeing global communications and business development efforts, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures that the firm's expertise in intellectual property and tax law reaches key client segments. This leadership role involves crafting targeted campaigns that highlight the firm's success in complex litigation. By analyzing market trends, Loose directly impacts the firm's ability to attract and retain high-value corporate clients. The Chief Marketing Officer collaborates with practice group leaders to develop content that demonstrates thought leadership in regulatory and specialty areas. Through the management of digital presence and professional outreach, Mariana Loose strengthens the firm's reputation as a premier legal partner. This strategic approach to marketing fosters sustainable growth and enhances the firm's visibility within the competitive legal landscape.

Cathy Benton, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Alston & Bird, manages talent acquisition, professional development, and organizational culture. Overseeing the recruitment of top-tier legal talent, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the firm maintains a workforce capable of handling sophisticated corporate and finance matters. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive training programs that support the growth of associates and partners alike. By fostering an inclusive environment, Benton directly impacts the firm's ability to retain high-performing professionals. The Chief Human Resources Officer works with the executive team to align human capital strategies with the firm's long-term business objectives. Through the implementation of performance management systems, Cathy Benton drives excellence across all practice areas. This focus on human capital development ensures that the firm remains a leader in the legal industry.