Butler Snow Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Butler Snow has 5 executives leading key functions including financial strategy, information technology, organizational operations, practice management, and human resources.

Committed to excellence in legal service, Butler Snow maintains a reputation as a top-tier firm focused on client relations and high-performance legal solutions across the United States.

Leadership Roles at Butler Snow

  • Chief Financial Officer - Paul Pratt
  • Practice Management Partner & Chief Operating Officer - Paula Proctor
  • Chief Information Officer - Kevin Rutledge
  • Chief of Staff - Lana Giessinger
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Sue Edgar
  • Paul Pratt - Chief Financial Officer

    Paul Pratt, the Chief Financial Officer at Butler Snow, directs all fiscal planning and capital allocation strategies for the firm. Managing the financial health of a full-service law firm requires precise oversight of revenue cycles and operational expenditures. Pratt architects robust financial models that support the firm's standing as one of America's Top 100 law firms. By analyzing market trends and internal performance metrics, the Chief Financial Officer ensures long-term stability and resource optimization. Paul Pratt monitors cash flow across regional offices to maintain the firm's competitive edge in the legal sector. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the executive team to align fiscal goals with client service objectives. Through rigorous auditing and strategic investment, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary capital to fund growth initiatives and technological advancements, ultimately reinforcing the firm's market position as a leader in client relations.
    Paul Pratt

    Paula Proctor - Practice Management Partner & Chief Operating Officer

    Paula Proctor, the Practice Management Partner & Chief Operating Officer at Butler Snow, oversees the daily operational functions and practice group performance across the firm. Balancing the demands of legal practice management with broad operational oversight, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that resources align with client needs. Proctor architects workflows that optimize attorney productivity and service quality. By monitoring performance metrics, the Chief Operating Officer identifies opportunities for process improvement and service expansion. Paula Proctor collaborates with practice group leaders to implement strategies that maintain the firm's high standing in the BTI Power Rankings. This leadership role involves managing the logistical aspects of legal service delivery to ensure consistency and excellence. Through effective operational management, the Chief Operating Officer supports the firm's growth and reinforces the commitment to providing top-tier legal solutions to clients throughout the nation, ensuring that every practice area operates at peak efficiency.

    Kevin Rutledge - Chief Information Officer

    Kevin Rutledge, the Chief Information Officer at Butler Snow, manages the digital infrastructure and cybersecurity frameworks essential for modern legal practice. Protecting sensitive client data remains the primary focus for the Chief Information Officer while implementing advanced software solutions to streamline case management. Rutledge drives the adoption of secure cloud technologies to facilitate seamless collaboration across the firm's national footprint. By integrating sophisticated data analytics, the Chief Information Officer provides attorneys with the tools necessary for efficient legal research and document processing. Kevin Rutledge oversees the IT department to ensure high availability of critical systems during complex litigation. This role requires constant evaluation of emerging technologies to maintain the firm's status as a top-tier service provider. Through proactive system maintenance and infrastructure scaling, the Chief Information Officer supports the firm's commitment to excellence and operational security in a digital-first legal environment.

    Lana Giessinger - Chief of Staff

    Lana Giessinger, the Chief of Staff at Butler Snow, coordinates strategic initiatives and facilitates communication between the executive leadership and the broader firm. Managing the flow of information and project priorities, the Chief of Staff ensures that organizational goals align with the firm's mission of superior client service. Giessinger architects internal processes that enhance administrative efficiency and cross-departmental collaboration. By overseeing high-level projects, the Chief of Staff enables the executive team to focus on long-term growth and market expansion. Lana Giessinger monitors the execution of firm-wide policies to maintain consistency in service delivery across all practice areas. This leadership role involves synthesizing complex data into actionable insights for the Board and senior partners. Through meticulous planning and organizational oversight, the Chief of Staff drives the firm's operational success, ensuring that every department contributes effectively to the overall reputation of the firm as a leader in the legal industry.

    Sue Edgar - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Sue Edgar, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Butler Snow, directs talent acquisition, professional development, and firm culture initiatives. Attracting and retaining top legal talent remains the core objective for the Chief Human Resources Officer while fostering an environment of excellence and inclusivity. Edgar architects comprehensive training programs that equip attorneys and staff with the skills necessary to maintain the firm's reputation for superior client service. By overseeing compensation structures and performance management, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the firm remains a premier destination for legal professionals. Sue Edgar monitors employee engagement and wellness to support a high-performance culture across all regional offices. This leadership role involves aligning human capital strategies with the firm's long-term business objectives. Through strategic recruitment and talent management, the Chief Human Resources Officer strengthens the firm's workforce, ensuring that the team possesses the expertise required to uphold the firm's status as a leader in the legal industry.

    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 Paula Proctor (Practice Management Partner & Chief Operating Officer) and Kevin Rutledge (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Butler Snow’s executive team?
    The executive team of Butler Snow includes leaders such as Paul Pratt (Chief Financial Officer), Paula Proctor (Practice Management Partner & Chief Operating Officer), Kevin Rutledge (Chief Information Officer) 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, Practice Management Partner & Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief Human Resources Officer.