Highlights of Recent Promotions at Stubbs Alderton & Markiles, LLP
Stubbs Alderton & Markiles, LLP (SAM) has made headlines with the announcement of significant promotions within its ranks, bringing attention to its commitment to excellence in legal services. This esteemed firm is not just making changes in titles but is reinforcing its commitment to advancing the careers of its most talented individuals.
On January 12, 2026, SAM revealed the elevation of four exceptional attorneys to the role of Partner: Jared Brenner, Cathleen Green, Celina Kirchner, and Simon Leefatt. In addition, Peter Saari has transitioned from Chief Operating Officer (COO) to Chief Executive Officer (CEO). These promotions signify the firm’s proactive approach to nurturing and recognizing talent among its employees.
Expertise of the Newly Promoted Partners
- - Jared Brenner specializes in the technology sector, focusing on various stages of growth for tech firms. His expertise extends to intricate licensing negotiations, mergers and acquisitions, and securing venture capital investments. He plays a crucial role in facilitating joint ventures for entertainment talents and advising startups across diverse industries, including life sciences and finance.
- - Cathleen Green, a pivotal member of the corporate and entertainment group, has extensive experience assisting a broad array of entertainment clients, from major production studios to high-profile talents. She expertly navigates complex transactions, including joint ventures, mergers, and licensing arrangements, ensuring her clients remain competitive and compliant.
- - Celina Kirchner brings a unique blend of practicality and empathy to the field of civil litigation. Her specialization in business and commercial disputes emphasizes the evolving landscape of internet privacy and digital media. Celina is dedicated to helping clients craft effective strategies for dispute resolution, showcasing her commitment to client service.
- - Simon Leefatt has a comprehensive background in corporate transactions, providing invaluable counsel on joint ventures, financing, and investments across various sectors, including healthcare and consumer goods. His experience representing both publicly traded companies and investment banks positions him as an authoritative figure in corporate law.
Leadership Transition to Peter Saari
In the firm’s structural evolution,
Peter Saari's shift from COO to CEO represents a strategic alignment with SAM’s vision. Since joining the firm in June 2024, Peter has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and a keen understanding of operations, pivotal for implementing growth strategies. His new role as CEO encapsulates his contributions to the firm and reflects SAM's commitment to strong management practices.
Scott Alderton, the Managing Partner, expressed confidence in the abilities of the new partners and CEO. “The expertise of our attorneys distinguishes SAM from others – they blend strategic insight with a commitment to deliver practical legal solutions,” he stated. This sentiment underscores SAM’s dedication to offering top-tier legal services while fostering an environment that champions professional growth among its staff.
Moving Forward
Stubbs Alderton & Markiles, LLP’s announcement of these promotions illustrates the firm’s unwavering focus on nurturing talent and providing exceptional legal counsel. With an emphasis on both personal and professional development, it continues to attract and retain some of the best legal minds in the industry, ensuring the firm’s reputation for excellence remains strong.
As SAM embarks on this new chapter of leadership, clients can expect not just a continuity of service but an enriched experience from a team that is committed to innovative legal solutions and unwavering client support. This strategic move signals a promising future, with an empowered leadership team ready to navigate the challenges in the legal landscape.