Katten Welcomes Meredith Sheldon O'Leary as Partner in Employee Benefits Practice

Katten Expands Its Expertise with Meredith Sheldon O'Leary

Katten, a nationally recognized law firm, has made a significant addition to its Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation practice by bringing on board Meredith Sheldon O'Leary as a partner. This strategic move is set to enhance the firm's already strong position in Washington, D.C., a hub for businesses needing sophisticated legal guidance in employee compensation strategies.

Meredith O'Leary is no stranger to the complex world of executive compensation. With over two decades of experience at some of the leading global law firms, she has counseled a range of clients from management groups to public and private companies, including financial institutions, hedge funds, and multinational corporations. Her expertise spans a vast array of employment, equity, incentive, and deferred compensation programs, making her a valuable asset to Katten.

Kate Saracene, chair of Katten's Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation practice, expressed her excitement: "Meredith's broad skillset and extensive experience expand our already deep bench. She will help drive more outstanding results for our clients. We are thrilled to welcome her."

In her role at Katten, O'Leary will focus on helping clients navigate the intricacies of compensation agreements, ensuring that their executive compensation strategies are not only effective but also tax-efficient. This includes advising on high-stakes corporate transactions such as mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, and reorganizations. The complexities of these transactions require meticulous planning and strategy, and O'Leary's experience positions her uniquely to offer insights into the challenges businesses face.

O'Leary's practice also covers implementing executive employment agreements, various compensation programs including equity-based arrangements, retention programs, and change in control projects. She's adept at managing intricate arrangements such as non-qualified deferred compensation, retirement plans, and health and welfare plans—all critical components of a comprehensive benefits strategy.

Seth Messner, managing partner of Katten's Washington, D.C. office, highlighted the significance of O'Leary's addition, stating, "We couldn't be more pleased to have Meredith join our growing team of deeply talented attorneys across a broad scope of practice areas and industries. Her depth of knowledge and practical insight will be a tremendous asset to our clients, allowing Katten to continue providing first-class client service."

With approximately 700 attorneys operating in several key locations across the United States, as well as offices in London and Shanghai, Katten is positioned as a full-service law firm. Clients look to Katten for legal expertise in areas such as corporate, financial markets and funds, insolvency and restructuring, intellectual property, litigation, and more.

The inclusion of O'Leary in the Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation practice not only strengthens Katten's capabilities but also aligns with its commitment to providing high-value legal services to both local and international clients. The firm's representation includes a diverse portfolio of public and private companies along with government and nonprofit organizations.

In conclusion, Meredith Sheldon O'Leary’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for Katten as it enhances its talent pool and resources dedicated to the critical area of employee benefits and executive compensation. Businesses can look forward to more innovative solutions and robust support tailored to their needs in this ever-evolving landscape of employment law.

For more information on Katten and their services, please visit katten.com.