Butler Snow Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Renowned for exceptional client service, Butler Snow maintains a premier position among America's top law firms by delivering comprehensive legal solutions and fostering long-term professional partnerships.

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, capital allocation, and long-term financial planning. Overseeing complex budgetary requirements and revenue forecasting, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the firm maintains its competitive standing within the legal industry. Paul Pratt directs financial reporting and risk management strategies to support sustainable growth across all practice areas. This leadership role involves collaborating with the executive team to evaluate investment opportunities and optimize resource distribution. By maintaining rigorous financial controls, the Chief Financial Officer protects the firm's assets and ensures transparency for all stakeholders. Pratt monitors market trends to adjust fiscal strategies, thereby securing the firm's ability to deliver consistent value to clients. Through disciplined financial oversight, the Chief Financial Officer reinforces the firm's reputation as a stable and reliable partner for complex legal engagements.
    Paul Pratt

    Ashley Wicks - President, Butler Snow Foundation

    Ashley Wicks, the President, Butler Snow Foundation at Butler Snow, directs the firm's philanthropic efforts and community engagement initiatives. Managing the foundation's grant-making processes and charitable partnerships, the President, Butler Snow Foundation ensures that the firm's social responsibility goals align with its core values of service and integrity. Ashley Wicks oversees the distribution of resources to support educational, legal, and community-based programs that create positive societal impact. This leadership role involves collaborating with community leaders and internal stakeholders to identify meaningful opportunities for investment. By fostering a culture of giving, the President, Butler Snow Foundation strengthens the firm's presence and reputation within the communities served. Wicks evaluates the effectiveness of charitable programs to ensure maximum benefit and alignment with the firm's mission. Through dedicated leadership, the President, Butler Snow Foundation promotes the firm's commitment to excellence beyond the courtroom.
    Ashley Wicks

    Lana Giessinger - Chief of Staff

    Lana Giessinger, the Chief of Staff at Butler Snow, coordinates executive workflows and aligns internal administrative processes with the firm's broader strategic objectives. Managing high-level communications and cross-departmental projects, the Chief of Staff ensures that leadership initiatives receive consistent support across all regional offices. Lana Giessinger facilitates efficient decision-making by synthesizing complex operational data for the executive committee. This role involves streamlining firm-wide policies to enhance productivity and maintain the high standards of client service for which the firm remains known. By optimizing organizational structures, the Chief of Staff drives operational excellence and supports the firm's mission to provide top-tier legal counsel. Through meticulous oversight of internal resources, Giessinger strengthens the firm's capacity to handle sophisticated legal matters while maintaining a cohesive and high-performing professional environment across the entire organization.

    Kevin Rutledge - Chief Information Officer

    Kevin Rutledge, the Chief Information Officer at Butler Snow, architects the firm's digital infrastructure and cybersecurity frameworks to protect sensitive client data. Directing the implementation of advanced legal technology, the Chief Information Officer ensures that all attorneys and staff possess the tools necessary for efficient case management and secure communication. Kevin Rutledge oversees the integration of cloud-based systems and data analytics to improve firm-wide operational agility. This role involves constant evaluation of emerging technologies to maintain a competitive edge in the legal market. By prioritizing robust IT governance, the Chief Information Officer mitigates digital risks and supports the firm's commitment to client confidentiality. Rutledge manages the technical teams responsible for maintaining high-availability systems across all geographic locations. Through strategic technology investments, the Chief Information Officer drives innovation and enhances the overall delivery of legal services to a diverse client base.

    Paula Daniel - Practice Management Partner and Chief Operations Officer

    Paula Daniel, the Practice Management Partner and Chief Operations Officer at Butler Snow, directs the daily operational functions and practice group performance across the firm. Overseeing the alignment of legal talent with client needs, the Practice Management Partner and Chief Operations Officer ensures that each practice area maintains high standards of efficiency and service delivery. Paula Daniel manages the integration of operational workflows to support the firm's growth and market expansion. This role involves working closely with practice group leaders to optimize staffing models and resource allocation. By focusing on operational scalability, the Practice Management Partner and Chief Operations Officer drives consistent performance and client satisfaction. Daniel monitors key performance indicators to identify areas for process improvement and strategic development. Through rigorous management of internal operations, the Practice Management Partner and Chief Operations Officer sustains the firm's status as a leader in client relations and legal excellence.
    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.