Vanguard Welcomes Natalie Lamarque as New Chief Legal Officer to Lead Legal and Compliance Efforts

Vanguard Welcomes Natalie Lamarque as Chief Legal Officer

On September 4, 2025, Vanguard, a prominent investment management company, announced the appointment of Natalie Lamarque as its Chief Legal Officer. This strategic move aims to bolster the firm’s legal and compliance operations, alongside enhancing public policy initiatives and investment stewardship. In her role, Natalie will not only direct Vanguard's legal division but will also act as the secretary of the Vanguard Board of Directors and the Vanguard funds.

Salim Ramji, the Chief Executive Officer of Vanguard, expressed confidence in Lamarque's capabilities, stating, "Natalie has spent her career ensuring everyday investors get a fair shake and helping people achieve a secure retirement. She is a seasoned executive who brings exceptional legal expertise and a deep understanding of our industry and the global regulatory environment." Ramji’s words reflect the firm’s commitment to improving investor experiences through the best legal practices and advice.

Before joining Vanguard, Natalie served as the Executive Vice President, General Counsel, and Secretary at Principal Financial Group since 2022. Her previous experience includes a senior vice president position at New York Life Insurance Company and serving as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York. Her diverse legal background, including positions as a law clerk at various federal courts and as an associate at Debevoise & Plimpton, illustrates her extensive expertise in navigating complex legal issues.

Natalie Lamarque is academically accomplished, holding a Bachelor of Arts cum laude from Duke University and a Juris Doctor magna cum laude from Duke University School of Law. Additionally, she actively participates on several boards, including City Year, Inc., and the Association of Life Insurance Counsel, as well as contributes to the New York University School of Law's Board of Advisors for its Program on Corporate Compliance and Enforcement.

In her statement, Natalie noted her admiration for Vanguard's integrity and efforts to support everyday investors. "I am excited to join Vanguard's leadership team and to work with the firm's talented legal professionals to advocate for better access and better investment outcomes, so more people have the chance to realize their financial goals and secure their future," she remarked, indicating her eagerness to contribute to the firm's mission.

Natalie Lamarque will succeed Tonya T. Robinson, who previously held the role of Chief Legal Officer. Ramji acknowledged Robinson's contributions, stating, "We are grateful for her contributions and wish her success in the future.”

Founded in 1975, Vanguard has become one of the world's leading investment management firms, providing investments and services to millions of individual investors globally. Operating under a unique investor-owned structure, the firm is dedicated to treating its investors fairly and ensuring they have optimal chances for investment success.

As Vanguard continues to strengthen its legal framework under Natalie Lamarque’s leadership, the firm reaffirms its commitment to its clients and the greater investment community at large. The change signals an exciting chapter for Vanguard as it works to further enhance the investor experience and uphold its high standards of compliance and advocacy.