Finnegan Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Finnegan has 4 executives leading key functions including operations, marketing, human resources, and people management.

Dedicated to intellectual property law, Finnegan drives innovation and legal excellence across diverse industries, shaping market standards through specialized expertise and client-focused strategies.

Leadership Roles at Finnegan

  • Chief Operating Officer - Keith Whitman
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Terra Liddell
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Dawn Ibbott
  • Chief People Officer - Kathy Bowman-Williams
  • Keith Whitman - Chief Operating Officer

    Keith Whitman, the Chief Operating Officer at Finnegan, directs the firm's operational infrastructure and administrative functions. Whitman oversees the efficient execution of daily business activities, ensuring seamless support for legal teams and client services. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation, managing operational budgets, and implementing process improvements across all departments. By focusing on operational excellence, Whitman directly contributes to the firm's ability to deliver high-quality intellectual property legal services. Whitman's strategic oversight ensures that the firm's operational framework aligns with its core mission of providing specialized legal counsel in areas such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and automotive industries. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to managing facilities and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, thereby supporting Finnegan's Washington DC operations and its broader market presence.

    Terra Liddell - Chief Marketing Officer

    Terra Liddell, the Chief Marketing Officer at Finnegan, architects and executes the firm's comprehensive marketing and business development strategies. Liddell drives brand visibility and market positioning, focusing on highlighting Finnegan's exclusive expertise in intellectual property law. This role involves developing targeted campaigns that resonate with key industries such as life sciences, chemicals, and textiles. By enhancing client engagement and expanding market reach, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures Finnegan remains a leader in its specialized legal fields. Liddell's strategic initiatives support the firm's growth objectives and reinforce its reputation for excellence. Overseeing all external communications and market intelligence, Terra Liddell ensures that Finnegan's value proposition is clearly communicated to potential and existing clients across the United States and globally.
    Terra Liddell

    Dawn Ibbott - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Dawn Ibbott, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Finnegan, directs all human capital management strategies and initiatives. Ibbott oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits programs, ensuring a robust and supportive work environment. This leadership position is critical for attracting and retaining top legal talent essential for Finnegan's specialized practice areas, including sports and fitness, and automotive law. By fostering a culture of professional growth and engagement, the Chief Human Resources Officer directly impacts the firm's ability to deliver exceptional client service. Dawn Ibbott's strategic focus on HR operations ensures alignment with the firm's mission and values, supporting Finnegan's Washington DC headquarters and its overall operational success. Ibbott champions initiatives that enhance employee well-being and professional advancement.
    Dawn Ibbott

    Kathy Bowman-Williams - Chief People Officer

    Kathy Bowman-Williams, the Chief People Officer at Finnegan, leads the strategic direction for all aspects of workforce engagement and talent management. Bowman-Williams focuses on cultivating a positive and productive organizational culture, essential for a law firm dedicated exclusively to intellectual property. This role involves developing programs that enhance employee experience, professional development, and retention across all levels of the firm. By prioritizing people-centric strategies, Kathy Bowman-Williams ensures Finnegan attracts and retains the highly skilled professionals required to excel in complex legal domains like biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. The Chief People Officer's oversight extends to fostering collaboration and ensuring that HR policies support the firm's overarching business objectives and its commitment to legal excellence. Bowman-Williams drives initiatives that strengthen the firm's human capital.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Finnegan Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Finnegan?
    Finnegan is led by Keith Whitman (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Terra Liddell (Chief Marketing Officer) and Dawn Ibbott (Chief Human Resources Officer).
    Who is part of Finnegan’s executive team?
    The executive team of Finnegan includes leaders such as Keith Whitman (Chief Operating Officer), Terra Liddell (Chief Marketing Officer), Dawn Ibbott (Chief Human Resources Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Finnegan have?
    Finnegan has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Finnegan’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Finnegan includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief People Officer.