Davis Polk Executive and Leadership Team

Tenley Chepiga, the Chief Operating Officer at Davis Polk, manages the firm's day-to-day operational activities and business functions. Chepiga directs the execution of strategic initiatives, ensuring seamless integration across all departments, including corporate, litigation, and tax practices. This executive role involves optimizing resource allocation, improving process efficiencies, and overseeing the administrative infrastructure that supports the firm's global operations. By focusing on operational excellence, Tenley Chepiga enhances the firm's capacity to deliver high-quality legal services and manage complex client matters effectively. The Chief Operating Officer's purview includes financial operations, facilities management, and the implementation of best practices to drive productivity and cost-effectiveness. Chepiga's leadership ensures that Davis Polk's operational framework is robust, scalable, and aligned with the firm's long-term strategic objectives, supporting its market position in New York City and beyond.

John Kapp, the Chief Information Officer at Davis Polk, directs the firm's technology strategy and infrastructure. Kapp oversees all aspects of information systems, ensuring robust security protocols and efficient data management to support the firm's extensive legal practices. This leadership role involves implementing cutting-edge technological solutions that enhance operational efficiency and client service delivery across corporate, litigation, and tax departments. By managing the firm's digital assets and network security, John Kapp safeguards sensitive client information and maintains the integrity of internal communication systems. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities extend to evaluating and adopting new technologies that streamline workflows and provide a competitive advantage in the legal services market. Kapp's strategic vision ensures that Davis Polk remains at the forefront of technological innovation within the legal industry, supporting complex case management and global client interactions.

Jill Sterner, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Davis Polk, leads the firm's comprehensive human capital strategy and management. Sterner oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits programs, ensuring the firm attracts and retains top legal and professional talent. This critical role involves fostering a positive and productive work environment that supports the firm's core values and business objectives across its corporate, litigation, and tax practices. By developing and implementing HR policies, Jill Sterner ensures compliance with labor laws and promotes employee engagement and professional growth. The Chief Human Resources Officer's responsibilities also include managing performance evaluation systems and driving initiatives that enhance organizational culture and employee well-being. Sterner's strategic direction in human resources is vital for maintaining Davis Polk's reputation as an employer of choice and supporting the firm's continued success.

Deryn Darcy, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Davis Polk, spearheads initiatives focused on talent management and organizational development. Darcy collaborates with leadership to design and implement programs that enhance employee experience, foster diversity and inclusion, and support professional advancement within the firm. This executive position involves overseeing employee relations, conflict resolution, and the development of policies that align with the firm's strategic goals and legal practice areas. By focusing on workforce planning and talent retention, Deryn Darcy ensures that Davis Polk maintains a highly skilled and motivated team capable of handling complex legal challenges. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic input is crucial for cultivating a culture of excellence and supporting the firm's commitment to its employees. Darcy's leadership in human resources contributes significantly to the firm's operational strength and its ability to attract and retain premier legal talent.

Lina Michel, the Chief Administrative Officer at Davis Polk, directs the firm's administrative functions and operational support services. Michel oversees the management of facilities, vendor relationships, and the implementation of administrative policies designed to enhance efficiency across all departments, including corporate, litigation, and tax practices. This leadership position involves ensuring that the firm's physical and operational infrastructure effectively supports its legal professionals and client needs. By managing key administrative operations, Lina Michel contributes to the smooth functioning of the firm's New York City headquarters and its broader service delivery. The Chief Administrative Officer's responsibilities extend to optimizing resource utilization and implementing best practices in office management and support systems. Michel's focus on administrative excellence ensures a productive and well-supported environment for the firm's legal teams.

Debbie Buchsbaum, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) at Davis Polk, drives strategic oversight of the firm's administrative operations and business support functions. Buchsbaum manages critical areas such as financial administration, resource planning, and the optimization of internal processes to support the firm's legal services in corporate, litigation, and tax law. This executive role involves ensuring that administrative systems are aligned with the firm's strategic objectives and contribute to overall operational effectiveness. By leading key administrative initiatives, Debbie Buchsbaum enhances the firm's capacity to manage complex projects and deliver exceptional client service. The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)'s responsibilities include fostering collaboration among support staff and implementing policies that promote efficiency and compliance. Buchsbaum's leadership ensures that Davis Polk's administrative framework is robust and adaptable to evolving business needs.