Davis Polk Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Davis Polk has 6 executives leading key functions including operations, information technology, human resources, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Davis Polk provides comprehensive legal services, encompassing corporate, litigation, and tax practices, shaping legal outcomes across diverse industries.

Leadership Roles at Davis Polk

  • Chief Operating Officer - Tenley Chepiga
  • Chief Information Officer - John Kapp
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Deryn Darcy
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Jill Sterner
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Lina Michel
  • Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) - Debbie Buchsbaum
  • Tenley Chepiga - Chief Operating Officer

    Tenley Chepiga, the Chief Operating Officer at Davis Polk, directs the firm's operational infrastructure and business support services. Overseeing daily operations, Chepiga ensures the efficient delivery of legal services by optimizing resource allocation and workflow management across all departments. This leadership role involves enhancing internal processes to support the firm's corporate, litigation, and tax practices. By focusing on operational excellence, Tenley Chepiga drives productivity and supports the firm's strategic objectives. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to managing administrative functions that underpin the firm's New York City headquarters and its broader market presence. Chepiga's strategic oversight guarantees that the firm's operational framework consistently supports its clients' needs and the firm's growth trajectory. This executive ensures seamless integration of support functions, from facilities management to vendor relations, directly impacting the firm's ability to execute complex legal strategies.

    John Kapp - Chief Information Officer

    John Kapp, the Chief Information Officer at Davis Polk, architects and executes the firm's technology strategy. Kapp oversees all aspects of information technology, ensuring robust, secure, and efficient systems that support the firm's legal practices. This includes managing the firm's digital infrastructure, data security protocols, and the implementation of innovative technological solutions for corporate, litigation, and tax matters. By driving technological advancement, John Kapp enhances the firm's capabilities in handling complex legal challenges and client data. The Chief Information Officer's role is critical in maintaining the firm's competitive edge through advanced IT services. Kapp's leadership ensures that Davis Polk leverages technology to improve client service, streamline internal operations, and safeguard sensitive information. This executive's focus on cybersecurity and system reliability is paramount to the firm's operational integrity and client trust.

    Deryn Darcy - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Deryn Darcy, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Davis Polk, leads the firm's human capital strategy and management. Darcy oversees all HR functions, including talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits, ensuring the firm attracts and retains top legal and professional talent. This role is vital for fostering a supportive and high-performing work environment that aligns with the firm's mission. By championing employee well-being and professional growth, Deryn Darcy contributes to the firm's sustained success in corporate, litigation, and tax law. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic initiatives are designed to enhance employee engagement and organizational culture. Darcy's expertise ensures that HR policies and practices effectively support the firm's operational needs and its commitment to its people.

    Jill Sterner - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Jill Sterner, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Davis Polk, spearheads initiatives focused on talent management and organizational development. Sterner collaborates with leadership to design and implement programs that enhance employee performance, career progression, and overall workforce satisfaction. This dual leadership in HR ensures comprehensive coverage of human capital needs, focusing on strategic workforce planning and the cultivation of a strong organizational culture. By driving initiatives in professional development and employee relations, Jill Sterner supports the firm's ability to deliver exceptional legal services. The Chief Human Resources Officer's role involves ensuring that HR strategies are aligned with the firm's long-term goals and its commitment to its employees. Sterner's focus on talent retention and development is key to maintaining the firm's expertise across its practice areas.

    Lina Michel - Chief Administrative Officer

    Lina Michel, the Chief Administrative Officer at Davis Polk, directs the firm's comprehensive administrative operations. Michel oversees critical support functions, including facilities management, office services, and vendor relations, ensuring the smooth day-to-day functioning of the firm's New York City headquarters and other locations. This leadership position is essential for maintaining an efficient and productive work environment that supports the firm's legal professionals. By optimizing administrative processes, Lina Michel enhances the firm's capacity to focus on its core legal services in corporate, litigation, and tax practices. The Chief Administrative Officer's responsibilities extend to managing budgets for administrative departments and ensuring compliance with operational standards. Michel's strategic oversight guarantees that administrative support consistently meets the high standards required by the firm and its clients.

    Debbie Buchsbaum - Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

    Debbie Buchsbaum, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) at Davis Polk, drives strategic initiatives across the firm's administrative functions. Buchsbaum focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and service delivery, overseeing key areas such as financial administration support, strategic planning for administrative resources, and the implementation of best practices. This role is pivotal in ensuring that the firm's administrative infrastructure effectively supports its complex legal operations, including its corporate, litigation, and tax practices. By leading cross-functional administrative projects, Debbie Buchsbaum contributes to the firm's overall effectiveness and client service excellence. The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)'s purview includes optimizing resource utilization and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the administrative teams. Buchsbaum's leadership ensures that administrative functions are seamlessly integrated with the firm's strategic objectives.
    Debbie Buchsbaum

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Davis Polk Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Davis Polk?
    Davis Polk is led by Tenley Chepiga (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as John Kapp (Chief Information Officer) and Deryn Darcy (Chief Human Resources Officer).
    Who is part of Davis Polk’s executive team?
    The executive team of Davis Polk includes leaders such as Tenley Chepiga (Chief Operating Officer), John Kapp (Chief Information Officer), Deryn Darcy (Chief Human Resources Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Davis Polk have?
    Davis Polk has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Davis Polk’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Davis Polk includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Administrative Officer.