Davis Polk Executive and Leadership Team

Tenley Chepiga, the Chief Operating Officer at Davis Polk, directs the firm's internal business infrastructure and operational efficiency. Overseeing the integration of cross-departmental workflows, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that legal teams receive the necessary support to manage complex corporate and litigation matters. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation across North American and international offices to maintain high service standards. By streamlining administrative processes, Tenley Chepiga directly impacts the firm's ability to scale legal service delivery. Chepiga monitors performance metrics to drive continuous improvement in operational output. Through rigorous oversight of internal systems, the Chief Operating Officer secures the firm's competitive position in the global legal market. This focus on operational excellence allows the firm to navigate intricate tax and regulatory landscapes with precision and speed, ultimately supporting the long-term growth objectives of the entire organization.

John Kapp, the Chief Information Officer at Davis Polk, architects the firm's digital infrastructure and cybersecurity framework. Managing the technological backbone for corporate and litigation practices, the Chief Information Officer ensures that data integrity remains a top priority for all legal professionals. This role involves implementing advanced software solutions to facilitate secure communication and document management across global jurisdictions. By modernizing the firm's IT stack, John Kapp directly impacts the efficiency of legal research and client reporting. Kapp coordinates with the Board to align technology investments with the firm's overarching strategic goals. Through the deployment of robust cloud-based tools, the Chief Information Officer mitigates digital risks while enhancing collaborative capabilities. This technological leadership supports the firm's ability to handle sensitive tax and corporate data, ensuring that all digital assets remain protected against evolving threats in the modern legal landscape.

Deryn Darcy, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Davis Polk, drives the firm's talent acquisition and professional development strategies. Overseeing the recruitment of top-tier legal talent, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the firm maintains a workforce capable of handling complex litigation and tax matters. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive training programs that foster a culture of excellence and inclusion. By managing performance evaluation systems, Deryn Darcy directly impacts the retention of high-performing attorneys and support staff. Darcy collaborates with other C-suite leaders to align human capital initiatives with the firm's long-term business objectives. Through the implementation of modern workplace policies, the Chief Human Resources Officer cultivates an environment conducive to high-level legal work. This focus on talent management ensures that the firm remains a premier destination for legal professionals, ultimately supporting the delivery of superior services to clients across diverse global markets.

Lina Michel, the Chief Administrative Officer at Davis Polk, manages the firm's physical facilities and administrative support services. Overseeing the daily operations of office environments, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that the infrastructure supports the demanding needs of corporate and litigation practices. This role involves coordinating logistics for large-scale legal projects and maintaining high standards for office functionality. By optimizing administrative workflows, Lina Michel directly impacts the productivity of the firm's legal teams. Michel works closely with the executive leadership to ensure that administrative resources align with the firm's strategic growth. Through the management of vendor relationships and facility maintenance, the Chief Administrative Officer creates a professional atmosphere that reflects the firm's reputation. This leadership role focuses on the logistical aspects of legal service delivery, ensuring that all administrative functions operate seamlessly to support the firm's complex tax and corporate advisory work.

Debbie Buchsbaum, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) at Davis Polk, executes the firm's strategic planning and internal governance initiatives. Overseeing the implementation of firm-wide policies, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) ensures that all administrative practices comply with regulatory requirements and internal standards. This role involves managing the firm's risk assessment protocols and coordinating with legal departments to ensure operational alignment. By refining internal governance structures, Debbie Buchsbaum directly impacts the firm's ability to maintain high ethical standards in litigation and tax practices. Buchsbaum collaborates with the executive team to drive organizational change and improve overall business agility. Through the oversight of administrative compliance, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) mitigates operational risks and supports the firm's long-term stability. This leadership role focuses on the structural integrity of the firm, ensuring that all administrative processes contribute to the successful execution of the firm's core legal mission.