Blank Rome Executive and Leadership Team

Laurie Gerber, the Chief Financial Officer at Blank Rome, directs the firm's financial strategy, planning, and management. Gerber oversees all fiscal operations, including budgeting, financial reporting, revenue cycle management, and investment strategies, ensuring the financial health and stability of the organization. This critical role supports the firm's ambitious growth plans and its commitment to serving clients across 16 offices in the United States and internationally. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with other executives to optimize financial performance and resource allocation, directly contributing to Blank Rome's ability to make history together. Gerber's financial acumen and strategic oversight are fundamental to sustaining the firm's position as an Am Law 100 entity and its ongoing pursuit of discovering opportunity amid change.

Shonette Gaston, the Chief Operating Officer at Blank Rome, directs the firm's operational infrastructure and administrative functions across its 16 offices. Gaston oversees the strategic implementation of policies and procedures designed to enhance efficiency and service delivery, ensuring seamless operations that support the firm's growth objectives. This leadership position involves managing key departments responsible for facilities, human resources, and business support services, all critical to maintaining the firm's high standards. Gaston's focus remains on optimizing resource allocation and driving operational excellence, directly contributing to the firm's ability to serve clients effectively in the United States and internationally. The Chief Operating Officer ensures that the firm's internal mechanisms are robust and scalable, aligning with the overarching mission of discovering opportunity amid change and making history together.

Francis Spadafino, the Chief Information Officer at Blank Rome, architects and executes the firm's comprehensive information technology strategy. Spadafino manages all aspects of the IT infrastructure, including cybersecurity, data management, and technology innovation, ensuring the secure and efficient flow of information across the firm's extensive network. This role is pivotal in supporting the firm's 750 attorneys and staff, enabling them to leverage cutting-edge technology for client service and internal operations. The Chief Information Officer drives initiatives that enhance productivity and collaboration, directly supporting Blank Rome's commitment to discovering opportunity amid change. By maintaining robust technological systems and exploring new digital solutions, Spadafino ensures the firm remains at the forefront of legal service delivery, both domestically and internationally.

Frank Gurfolino, the Chief Technology Officer at Blank Rome, spearheads the firm's technological advancements and digital transformation efforts. Gurfolino evaluates and integrates emerging technologies that enhance legal practice, client service, and operational efficiency across the firm's 16 offices. This executive role is crucial for maintaining Blank Rome's competitive edge by ensuring access to state-of-the-art tools and platforms. The Chief Technology Officer collaborates with IT and other leadership to align technology roadmaps with the firm's strategic goals, fostering innovation and driving progress. Gurfolino's leadership ensures that the firm's technological capabilities consistently support its mission of discovering opportunity amid change and making history together, providing attorneys with the advanced resources needed for complex legal challenges.

Melissa Morrissey, the Chief Administrative Officer at Blank Rome, manages the firm's extensive administrative operations and support services. Morrissey oversees key functions that ensure the smooth day-to-day functioning of the firm, including human resources, facilities management, and procurement, across all 16 office locations. This leadership position is vital for supporting the firm's 750 attorneys and professional staff, fostering a productive work environment. The Chief Administrative Officer plays a crucial role in implementing policies and procedures that align with Blank Rome's mission of collaborative service and community engagement. Morrissey's dedication to operational excellence directly supports the firm's strategic objectives, enabling attorneys to focus on delivering exceptional legal counsel and discovering opportunity amid change.

Kathryn Tavella, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) at Blank Rome, leads the firm's comprehensive communication strategies and public relations efforts. Tavella manages internal and external communications, brand management, and media relations, ensuring consistent messaging across the firm's 16 offices and to its diverse client base. This role is essential for articulating Blank Rome's value proposition and reinforcing its commitment to client success and community involvement. The Chief Communications Officer (Cco) works to enhance the firm's reputation and visibility, supporting its mission of discovering opportunity amid change. Tavella's strategic communication initiatives are instrumental in building strong relationships with stakeholders and advancing the firm's objectives, contributing significantly to its legacy of making history together.