Troutman Pepper Locke Expands Its Tax and Benefits Group with New Partner Heather Heath Ryan

Troutman Pepper Locke Expands with New Partner

Troutman Pepper Locke LLP has recently announced the addition of Heather Heath Ryan as a partner in the firm's Tax and Benefits Practice Group located in Charlotte, North Carolina. This significant recruitment is expected to enhance the firm's capability in providing specialized guidance to its clients on complex employee benefits and executive compensation issues.

Heather Heath Ryan arrives with over ten years of experience in the field, specializing in the intricate design and administration of health and welfare plans, retirement schemes, and executive compensation strategies. Her background includes working as an in-house counsel, where she has gained unique insights into the challenges and expectations that clients face in today’s regulatory environment.

Jim Earle, who leads the Tax and Benefits Practice Group, expressed confidence in Ryan’s ability to contribute significantly to the firm's operations. He stated, "Heather's extensive experience in employee benefits and executive compensation will be invaluable in enhancing our practice and meeting our clients' diverse needs."

Ryan’s expertise also encompasses a broad range of employee benefits, including 401(k) plans, pension schemes, cafeteria plans, and health and welfare offerings. She has not only led various Department of Labor and IRS audits but has also adeptly handled correction submissions for clients, ensuring compliance with the intricate requirements from federal and state regulators.

In her new role, Ryan aims to provide comprehensive, actionable advice that addresses both regulatory compliance and practical business considerations. According to her, her move to Troutman Pepper Locke aligns perfectly with the firm's objectives and values, allowing her to leverage her in-house experience to deliver proactive, business-oriented insights that resonate with client perspectives. "I'm eager to work on retirement and health benefit plans, executive compensation, and MA transactions, while enhancing our focus on benefits compliance and fiduciary governance for our employer clients," Ryan remarked.

As Troutman Pepper Locke's Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation Team expands, they are poised to tackle various client needs stemming from corporate transactions, including equity compensation, severance arrangements, and deferred compensation issues. Jason Evans, managing partner of the Charlotte office, added that Ryan’s deep knowledge of these complex areas will significantly bolster their capacity to service clients in navigating compliance and transactional challenges.

Notably, Troutman Pepper Locke's reputation within the industry is solidified by its team of 25 attorneys working from nine locations, effectively addressing employee benefits and executive compensation matters across numerous sectors such as energy, finance, healthcare, and technology. This extensive reach allows the firm to offer specialized insights and solutions tailored to the specific needs of their diverse clientele.

With more than 1,600 attorneys operating in over 30 offices, Troutman Pepper Locke is well-positioned to tackle the legal challenges faced by clients in an evolving global market. Their commitment to delivering solutions that facilitate business growth while complying with legal and regulatory requirements ensures they remain a trusted partner for organizations looking to navigate the complexities of today’s legal landscape.

Overall, Heather Heath Ryan's integration into Troutman Pepper Locke represents a significant advancement for both the firm and its clients, as they continue to strive for excellence in providing critical legal guidance in employee benefits and executive compensation matters.