Crowell Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Crowell has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, operations, marketing, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Crowell is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal solutions and upholding a strong tradition of pro bono service and diversity, impacting global markets through high-stakes litigation and regulatory counsel.

Leadership Roles at Crowell

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Geralyn Ritter
  • Chief Operating Officer - Joseph Palermo
  • Chief Information Officer - Joel Gustafson
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Maura Brandt
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Alyson Guthrie
  • Geralyn Ritter - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Geralyn Ritter, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Crowell, directs the firm's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Ritter guides the firm's global expansion efforts, ensuring alignment with its core mission of representing Fortune 500 companies in complex litigation and transactional matters. Overseeing all executive functions, Ritter drives initiatives that enhance the firm's international presence across its Washington, D.C., New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Orange County, London, and Brussels offices. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of innovation and client service excellence. By championing the firm's commitment to pro bono work and diversity, Geralyn Ritter solidifies Crowell's reputation as a leading international law firm.
    Geralyn Ritter

    Joseph Palermo - Chief Operating Officer

    Joseph Palermo, the Chief Operating Officer at Crowell, manages the firm's day-to-day administrative and operational functions. Palermo oversees resource allocation and operational efficiency across the firm's international locations, including Washington, D.C., New York, London, and Brussels. This leadership position involves optimizing business processes to support the firm's extensive litigation, arbitration, regulatory, and transactional practices. By ensuring seamless operations, Joseph Palermo enables the firm's lawyers to focus on delivering exceptional service to Fortune 500 clients. Palermo's strategic oversight contributes directly to the firm's ability to handle high-stakes matters and maintain its commitment to pro bono service and diversity.

    Joel Gustafson - Chief Information Officer

    Joel Gustafson, the Chief Information Officer at Crowell, architects the firm's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Gustafson oversees the implementation of advanced technological solutions that support the firm's global operations and enhance client service delivery in litigation, arbitration, regulatory, and transactional practices. This role involves managing cybersecurity protocols and ensuring the integrity of sensitive client data across all international offices. By driving digital transformation, Joel Gustafson enables efficient collaboration among the firm's approximately 500 lawyers and supports high-stakes representation for Fortune 500 companies. Gustafson's leadership ensures Crowell maintains a competitive technological edge in the global legal market.
    Joel Gustafson

    Maura Brandt - Chief Marketing Officer

    Maura Brandt, the Chief Marketing Officer at Crowell, develops and executes the firm's global marketing and business development strategies. Brandt oversees brand management and market positioning, ensuring Crowell's international reputation for excellence in litigation, arbitration, regulatory, and transactional matters is consistently reinforced. This role involves driving initiatives that highlight the firm's expertise in representing Fortune 500 companies and its dedication to pro bono service and diversity. By enhancing client engagement and market visibility across all office locations, Maura Brandt supports the firm's growth objectives. Brandt's strategic marketing efforts are crucial for maintaining Crowell's status as a premier international law firm.
    Maura Brandt

    Alyson Guthrie - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Alyson Guthrie, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Crowell, leads the firm's talent management and organizational development strategies. Guthrie oversees all aspects of human resources, including recruitment, employee relations, compensation, and benefits, ensuring the firm attracts and retains top legal talent across its international offices. This critical role supports Crowell's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, essential for its representation of Fortune 500 companies in high-stakes matters. By championing employee development and well-being, Alyson Guthrie contributes to the firm's operational strength and its ongoing success in litigation, arbitration, regulatory, and transactional law. Guthrie's leadership ensures a robust talent pipeline for the firm's global operations.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Crowell Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Crowell?
    Crowell is led by Geralyn Ritter (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Joseph Palermo (Chief Operating Officer) and Joel Gustafson (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Crowell’s executive team?
    The executive team of Crowell includes leaders such as Geralyn Ritter (President & Chief Executive Officer), Joseph Palermo (Chief Operating Officer), Joel Gustafson (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Crowell have?
    Crowell has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Crowell’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Crowell includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.