Ropes & Gray Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ropes & Gray has 4 executives leading key functions including finance, information technology, operations, and executive leadership.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Ropes & Gray upholds a leadership philosophy centered on strategic foresight and operational efficiency, shaping its significant market impact across global legal services.

Leadership Roles at Ropes & Gray

  • Chief Financial Officer - Bruce Willman
  • Chief Operating Officer - Akhil Sethi
  • President - R. Donaldson
  • Chief Information Officer - Marsha Stein
  • Bruce Willman - Chief Financial Officer

    Bruce Willman, the Chief Financial Officer at Ropes & Gray, directs all financial strategy and operations for the global law firm. Overseeing fiscal planning, budgeting, and financial reporting, Willman ensures robust financial health across the firm's 11 international offices. This leadership role involves managing investment strategies and optimizing resource allocation to support Ropes & Gray's extensive practice areas, including Asset Management, Intellectual Property, and Private Equity. By maintaining stringent financial controls and driving efficiency, Bruce Willman directly supports the firm's capacity to deliver high-value legal services and expand its market presence in the United States, Asia, and Europe. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to risk management and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations, solidifying the firm's stability and growth trajectory.
    Bruce Willman

    Akhil Sethi - Chief Operating Officer

    Akhil Sethi, the Chief Operating Officer at Ropes & Gray, manages the firm's day-to-day operational functions and strategic initiatives. Sethi oversees the integration of business operations across Ropes & Gray's 11 global offices, ensuring seamless service delivery in areas like Private Equity and Intellectual Property. This leadership position involves optimizing resource deployment, enhancing internal processes, and driving efficiency throughout the firm's extensive network. By focusing on operational excellence, Akhil Sethi directly supports the firm's ability to provide comprehensive legal solutions to a diverse international clientele. The Chief Operating Officer's purview includes managing administrative functions, facilities, and business support services, all critical to maintaining Ropes & Gray's high standards and market leadership.

    R. Donaldson - President

    R. Donaldson, the President at Ropes & Gray, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the global law firm. Donaldson guides the firm's overarching vision, ensuring alignment across all practice areas, including Asset Management and Life Sciences, and its 11 international locations. This role involves fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, essential for maintaining Ropes & Gray's competitive edge in complex legal markets across the United States, Asia, and Europe. By championing strategic growth initiatives and overseeing key business development efforts, R. Donaldson significantly contributes to the firm's sustained success and market influence. The President's leadership is pivotal in navigating the evolving legal landscape and reinforcing Ropes & Gray's commitment to client service and operational excellence.

    Marsha Stein - Chief Information Officer

    Marsha Stein, the Chief Information Officer at Ropes & Gray, architects the firm's technology strategy and oversees all information systems. Stein directs the implementation and management of advanced technological solutions that enhance operational efficiency and client service delivery across Ropes & Gray's global network. This critical function ensures the security and integrity of sensitive client data, supporting practices such as Life Sciences and Investment Management. By driving innovation in IT infrastructure and digital tools, Marsha Stein empowers legal professionals with the resources needed to excel. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing cybersecurity protocols, optimizing data management systems, and fostering a culture of technological advancement, thereby reinforcing Ropes & Gray's position as a leading international law firm.
    Marsha Stein

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ropes & Gray Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ropes & Gray?
    Ropes & Gray is led by Bruce Willman (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Akhil Sethi (Chief Operating Officer) and R. Donaldson (President).
    Who is part of Ropes & Gray’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ropes & Gray includes leaders such as Bruce Willman (Chief Financial Officer), Akhil Sethi (Chief Operating Officer), R. Donaldson (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ropes & Gray have?
    Ropes & Gray has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Ropes & Gray’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Ropes & Gray includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Chief Information Officer.