Katten Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Katten has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, operations, and finance.

Committed to delivering sophisticated legal solutions, Katten provides high-value counsel across corporate, financial, and litigation sectors to clients globally. The firm maintains a focus on excellence, innovation, and diversity to support complex business needs.

Leadership Roles at Katten

  • Chief Executive Officer - Noah Heller
  • Chief Financial Officer - Wayne Richman
  • Chief Operating Officer - Allan Wood
  • Chief Information Officer - Peter Durr
  • Noah Heller - Chief Executive Officer

    Noah Heller, the Chief Executive Officer at Katten, directs the firm's overarching strategic vision and long-term growth initiatives. Overseeing the integration of legal practice areas across international offices, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the evolving needs of Fortune 100 clients and private entities. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of excellence while maintaining the firm's reputation for high-value transactional and litigation services. By coordinating with the Board and department heads, Noah Heller drives the expansion of market presence in key sectors like financial services and private equity. The Chief Executive Officer monitors global market trends to position the firm as a leader in complex business finance and regulatory compliance. Ultimately, Heller secures the firm's competitive advantage through disciplined management and a commitment to delivering superior legal outcomes for diverse clients across the United States, London, and Shanghai.

    Wayne Richman - Chief Financial Officer

    Wayne Richman, the Chief Financial Officer at Katten, governs the firm's financial health, budgeting, and capital allocation strategies. Overseeing fiscal planning for operations across the United States, London, and Shanghai, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the firm maintains the resources necessary to support sophisticated legal practices. This role involves managing financial risk, monitoring revenue streams from diverse sectors like private credit and structured finance, and reporting to the executive leadership team. By implementing robust financial controls, Wayne Richman supports the firm's long-term sustainability and investment in talent. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with practice leaders to analyze the profitability of various legal services, ensuring alignment with the firm's broader business objectives. Through strategic financial management, Richman enables the firm to navigate complex economic landscapes while delivering consistent value to clients. Ultimately, Richman secures the financial foundation required for continued growth and professional excellence.

    Allan Wood - Chief Operating Officer

    Allan Wood, the Chief Operating Officer at Katten, manages the firm's internal business operations and administrative efficiency. Overseeing the daily functions of the Chicago headquarters and regional offices, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that resources align with the firm's strategic goals in real estate, aviation, and health care practice areas. This leadership role involves streamlining operational processes to support the delivery of high-value legal services. By coordinating cross-departmental initiatives, Allan Wood optimizes the allocation of talent and infrastructure to meet the demands of complex mergers and acquisitions. The Chief Operating Officer monitors performance metrics to drive organizational growth and maintain the firm's commitment to diversity and inclusion standards. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, Wood facilitates a productive environment for attorneys and staff. Ultimately, Wood ensures the operational stability required to sustain the firm's market position and client service excellence.

    Peter Durr - Chief Information Officer

    Peter Durr, the Chief Information Officer at Katten, architects the firm's digital infrastructure and cybersecurity frameworks. Managing the technological requirements for 700 attorneys, the Chief Information Officer implements advanced systems to support complex litigation, intellectual property, and transactional work. This role involves securing sensitive client data while optimizing internal workflows to enhance productivity across global locations. By deploying cutting-edge legal technology, Peter Durr ensures that the firm remains at the forefront of digital transformation in the legal industry. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with practice group leaders to integrate data-driven insights into daily operations, facilitating efficient document management and secure communication. Through the modernization of IT systems, Durr supports the firm's ability to handle high-stakes matters for public and private companies. Ultimately, Durr maintains the technological resilience necessary to uphold the firm's standards of service and client confidentiality.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Katten Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Katten?
    Katten is led by Noah Heller (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Wayne Richman (Chief Financial Officer) and Allan Wood (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Katten’s executive team?
    The executive team of Katten includes leaders such as Noah Heller (Chief Executive Officer), Wayne Richman (Chief Financial Officer), Allan Wood (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Katten have?
    Katten has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Katten’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Katten includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer.