McGuireWoods Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

McGuireWoods has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, administration, and chief of staff.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, McGuireWoods provides comprehensive legal and public affairs solutions, empowering clients with a distinct competitive advantage through over two centuries of collective experience.

Leadership Roles at McGuireWoods

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - James Hodges
  • Chief Financial Officer - Pranab Biswas
  • Chief Operating Officer - Jeffrey Connor
  • Chief of Staff To the Managing Partner - Katie Studer
  • Chief Administrative Officer - J.D. Neary
  • James Hodges - President & Chief Executive Officer

    James Hodges, the President & Chief Executive Officer at McGuireWoods, directs the firm's overarching strategy and global operations. Overseeing all business units, Hodges ensures alignment with the company's mission of providing unparalleled legal and public affairs solutions. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives and maintaining the firm's competitive edge for clients worldwide. By fostering a culture of excellence, James Hodges directly impacts the firm's ability to deliver exceptional service and achieve client objectives. The President & Chief Executive Officer's strategic vision guides the firm's expansion and operational efficiency, securing its position as a trusted advisor for corporate, individual, and nonprofit clients.

    Pranab Biswas - Chief Financial Officer

    Pranab Biswas, the Chief Financial Officer at McGuireWoods, directs the firm's financial planning, accounting, and investment strategies. Overseeing all fiscal operations, Biswas ensures robust financial health and compliance with regulatory standards across global markets. This critical role involves managing budgets, analyzing financial performance, and identifying opportunities for fiscal optimization to support the firm's long-term growth objectives. By maintaining stringent financial controls and providing strategic financial insights, Pranab Biswas directly enables the firm to deliver exceptional value to its clients. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is fundamental to sustaining the firm's competitive position and its commitment to client success.

    Jeffrey Connor - Chief Operating Officer

    Jeffrey Connor, the Chief Operating Officer at McGuireWoods, manages the firm's day-to-day operational functions and resource allocation. Overseeing administrative departments and support services, Connor ensures seamless execution of the firm's strategic directives. This role involves optimizing internal processes and enhancing operational efficiency to support client service delivery across all global markets. By streamlining workflows and managing resources effectively, Jeffrey Connor directly contributes to the firm's ability to provide cost-effective and high-quality legal and public affairs solutions. The Chief Operating Officer's focus on operational excellence underpins the firm's commitment to client success and sustained competitive advantage.
    Jeffrey Connor

    Katie Studer - Chief of Staff To the Managing Partner

    Katie Studer, the Chief of Staff To the Managing Partner at McGuireWoods, provides strategic support and manages key initiatives for the firm's leadership. Overseeing special projects and facilitating communication across departments, Studer ensures efficient execution of the Managing Partner's agenda. This role involves coordinating efforts to enhance operational effectiveness and client service delivery across all global operations. By acting as a central point of contact and driving critical projects forward, Katie Studer directly supports the firm's strategic goals and commitment to client success. The Chief of Staff To the Managing Partner's role is integral to maintaining the firm's competitive edge and its dedication to excellence.

    J.D. Neary - Chief Administrative Officer

    J.D. Neary, the Chief Administrative Officer at McGuireWoods, oversees the firm's comprehensive administrative functions and infrastructure. Managing facilities, human resources, and support operations, Neary ensures a productive and efficient work environment that supports client service excellence worldwide. This role is pivotal in maintaining the operational backbone of the firm, enabling seamless delivery of legal and public affairs solutions. By optimizing administrative processes and resource management, J.D. Neary directly enhances the firm's capacity to achieve its strategic objectives and provide a competitive advantage to clients. The Chief Administrative Officer's leadership is essential for sustaining the firm's commitment to quality and client satisfaction.
    J.D. Neary

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding McGuireWoods Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads McGuireWoods?
    McGuireWoods is led by James Hodges (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Pranab Biswas (Chief Financial Officer) and Jeffrey Connor (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of McGuireWoods’s executive team?
    The executive team of McGuireWoods includes leaders such as James Hodges (President & Chief Executive Officer), Pranab Biswas (Chief Financial Officer), Jeffrey Connor (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does McGuireWoods have?
    McGuireWoods has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in McGuireWoods’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of McGuireWoods includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff To the Managing Partner, Chief Administrative Officer.