Butler Snow Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Butler Snow has 5 executives leading key functions including operations, financial management, information technology, administrative coordination, and philanthropic outreach.

Committed to excellence in legal service, Butler Snow maintains a reputation as a premier national firm focused on client relations and high-impact legal solutions across diverse practice areas.

Leadership Roles at Butler Snow

  • Chief Financial Officer - Paul Pratt
  • President, Butler Snow Foundation - Ashley Wicks
  • Chief of Staff - Lana Giessinger
  • Chief Information Officer - Kevin Rutledge
  • Practice Management Partner and Chief Operations Officer - Paula Daniel
  • Paul Pratt - Chief Financial Officer

    Paul Pratt, the Chief Financial Officer at Butler Snow, manages the firm's fiscal health, budgeting, and long-term financial planning. Overseeing revenue cycles and expense management, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the firm maintains the capital strength required to support its national legal practice. Paul Pratt analyzes market trends to guide investment decisions and resource allocation across various practice groups. This leadership role involves reporting financial performance to the partnership and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. By optimizing billing processes and financial reporting, the Chief Financial Officer enhances the firm's profitability and operational stability. Paul Pratt also evaluates the financial impact of expansion initiatives, providing the data necessary for strategic growth. Through disciplined fiscal oversight, the Chief Financial Officer secures the firm's ability to deliver high-quality legal services while maintaining a competitive position in the BTI Power Rankings.
    Paul Pratt

    Ashley Wicks - President, Butler Snow Foundation

    Ashley Wicks, the President, Butler Snow Foundation at Butler Snow, directs the firm's philanthropic initiatives and community engagement programs. Overseeing the distribution of charitable resources, the President, Butler Snow Foundation ensures that the firm's corporate social responsibility efforts align with its values of service and integrity. Ashley Wicks manages partnerships with non-profit organizations to maximize the impact of the firm's charitable contributions. This leadership role involves coordinating volunteer efforts and community outreach programs that enhance the firm's reputation as a socially conscious legal entity. By fostering a culture of giving, the President, Butler Snow Foundation strengthens the firm's connection to the communities where it operates. The President, Butler Snow Foundation also reports on the effectiveness of these programs to the partnership, ensuring transparency and strategic alignment. Through these efforts, the President, Butler Snow Foundation reinforces the firm's commitment to making a positive difference beyond the courtroom.
    Ashley Wicks

    Lana Giessinger - Chief of Staff

    Lana Giessinger, the Chief of Staff at Butler Snow, coordinates administrative workflows and facilitates communication across the executive leadership team. By managing internal projects and aligning departmental goals with the firm's broader legal objectives, the Chief of Staff ensures operational efficiency. Lana Giessinger monitors firm-wide initiatives to maintain high standards of client service, a core pillar of the organization. This role involves synthesizing complex data from various practice groups to support informed decision-making by the partnership. Through rigorous oversight of daily operations, the Chief of Staff optimizes resource allocation and fosters a collaborative environment. The Chief of Staff also manages critical communications between the executive office and regional offices, ensuring consistent application of firm policies. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff directly contributes to the sustained growth and professional reputation of the firm within the competitive legal landscape.

    Kevin Rutledge - Chief Information Officer

    Kevin Rutledge, the Chief Information Officer at Butler Snow, directs the firm's technological infrastructure and digital security protocols. Overseeing the integration of advanced legal software and data management systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures that attorneys possess the tools necessary for efficient case management. Kevin Rutledge architects secure networks to protect sensitive client information, maintaining the firm's standing as a top-tier legal provider. This leadership role involves evaluating emerging technologies to enhance productivity across all regional offices. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures, the Chief Information Officer mitigates risks associated with digital legal practice. The Chief Information Officer also collaborates with the partnership to align technology investments with long-term business goals. Through the continuous modernization of digital platforms, the Chief Information Officer supports the firm's commitment to providing superior client service and maintaining operational excellence in a data-driven industry.

    Paula Daniel - Practice Management Partner and Chief Operations Officer

    Paula Daniel, the Practice Management Partner and Chief Operations Officer at Butler Snow, directs the day-to-day operational functions and practice group performance. Overseeing the integration of legal talent and administrative support, the Chief Operations Officer ensures that each practice area meets the firm's rigorous standards for client service. Paula Daniel architects workflows that improve case delivery and cross-departmental collaboration. This leadership role involves monitoring operational metrics to identify opportunities for efficiency and growth across the firm's national footprint. By aligning practice management strategies with the firm's overall business objectives, the Chief Operations Officer drives consistent performance. Paula Daniel also works closely with the partnership to refine service delivery models, ensuring the firm remains a leader in the legal industry. Through the management of daily operations, the Chief Operations Officer supports the firm's mission to provide exceptional value to every client.
    Paula Daniel

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Butler Snow Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Butler Snow?
    Butler Snow is led by Paul Pratt (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Ashley Wicks (President, Butler Snow Foundation) and Lana Giessinger (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Butler Snow’s executive team?
    The executive team of Butler Snow includes leaders such as Paul Pratt (Chief Financial Officer), Ashley Wicks (President, Butler Snow Foundation), Lana Giessinger (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Butler Snow have?
    Butler Snow has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Butler Snow’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Butler Snow includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, Butler Snow Foundation, Chief of Staff, Chief Information Officer, Practice Management Partner and Chief Operations Officer.