DLA Piper Executive and Leadership Team

Rachael Pepper, the Chief of Staff To Global Co-Chief Executive Officer, Global Co-Chair and Americas Chair at DLA Piper, manages high-level strategic initiatives across the firm. Pepper coordinates executive priorities to ensure alignment with global business objectives. By facilitating communication between the Global Co-Chief Executive Officer and regional leadership, the Chief of Staff To Global Co-Chief Executive Officer, Global Co-Chair and Americas Chair optimizes decision-making processes. This role involves overseeing complex projects that span North American and international markets, ensuring operational consistency. Rachael Pepper drives efficiency by streamlining workflows and managing critical firm-wide agendas. Through rigorous oversight of executive operations, the Chief of Staff To Global Co-Chief Executive Officer, Global Co-Chair and Americas Chair supports the firm in maintaining a competitive edge within the global legal sector. This position remains central to executing the long-term vision of the leadership team.

Kelly Neiman, the Chief Human Resources Officer at DLA Piper, directs the global talent strategy and organizational development initiatives. Neiman designs comprehensive programs to attract, retain, and cultivate top-tier legal professionals across diverse international offices. By implementing robust performance management systems, the Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a culture of excellence and professional growth. This leadership role involves aligning human capital strategies with the firm's broader business goals to ensure sustained operational success. Kelly Neiman oversees workforce planning and diversity initiatives, strengthening the firm's ability to provide integrated legal solutions. Through the development of innovative employee engagement frameworks, the Chief Human Resources Officer enhances firm-wide productivity. Neiman maintains a focus on building a resilient, high-performing workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of clients in a complex global market, ultimately securing the firm's position as a premier employer.

Lauren Mistretta, the Chief Communications Officer at DLA Piper, architects the firm's global reputation and internal messaging strategy. Mistretta manages all corporate communications, ensuring consistent brand alignment across international markets. By developing targeted media relations and public affairs campaigns, the Chief Communications Officer elevates the firm's profile among key stakeholders and clients. This role involves coordinating with leadership to articulate the firm's value proposition and commitment to legal excellence. Lauren Mistretta oversees digital content and crisis management protocols, protecting the firm's integrity in a fast-paced global environment. Through strategic storytelling and clear communication channels, the Chief Communications Officer drives engagement and transparency. Mistretta ensures that all messaging reflects the firm's dedication to providing sophisticated legal and business solutions. This leadership function remains vital for maintaining strong relationships with clients and the broader legal community worldwide.

Elisha King, the Partner & Global Chief Legal Officer at DLA Piper, directs the firm's internal legal affairs and regulatory compliance framework. King manages risk mitigation strategies across all global operations, ensuring adherence to international legal standards. By providing expert counsel to the executive team, the Partner & Global Chief Legal Officer safeguards the firm's interests while supporting complex cross-border transactions. This role involves overseeing governance structures and ethical standards that define the firm's professional conduct. Elisha King drives the implementation of robust compliance policies, enabling the firm to navigate intricate regulatory environments effectively. Through proactive legal oversight, the Partner & Global Chief Legal Officer supports the firm's mission to deliver reliable business solutions. King maintains a focus on operational integrity, ensuring that all legal practices align with the firm's commitment to excellence and client service on a global scale.

Rita Zasowski, the Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer at DLA Piper, drives the firm's growth strategy through targeted market expansion and client acquisition initiatives. Zasowski oversees the development of innovative service offerings that address the evolving needs of clients across various industries. By analyzing market trends and competitive landscapes, the Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer identifies new opportunities for revenue growth. This role involves collaborating with practice groups to enhance client relationships and expand the firm's footprint in key international regions. Rita Zasowski manages the execution of high-impact marketing campaigns that showcase the firm's integrated legal expertise. Through strategic business development efforts, the Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer ensures the firm remains at the forefront of the legal market. Zasowski focuses on delivering measurable results that support the firm's long-term commercial objectives and commitment to providing superior legal solutions.