Ira Coleman is the chair of McDermott Will & Emery. When Ira took on this role in 2017, the Firm embraced a new strategic direction focused on being indispensable to clients, enhancing performance and nurturing a happy, fun culture. In line with this, McDermott also adopted the mantra of #AlwaysBetter, representing the Firm’s commitment for constant improvement with the goal of delivering ever-greater value for our clients, people and communities.
With this foundation, the Firm has achieved the strongest upward trajectory among big law firms, including consistent double-digit growth across all key metrics. McDermott has also expanded across practices and geographies, with particularly strong growth in the premier markets of New York, London, Miami and the US West Coast. The Firm has soared to the top of various industry rankings and has become a destination of choice for top talent, further supported by a commitment to be the leading career accelerant in the profession.
Prior to taking on this role, Ira led the Corporate & Transactional Practice Group and served as the Managing Partner for the Firm’s Miami office. Ira still practices law, representing the healthcare industry. In particular, he advises private equity clients in navigating M&A and controversy matters that have “bet the company” implications.
Ira also serves as the advisory counsel for the Healthcare Private Equity Association (HCPEA). He presents regularly at private equity, national healthcare and leadership-focused conferences on a variety of subjects. He has authored and been quoted in numerous articles on private equity, health law, diversity, equity and inclusion, and leadership. In 2021, he received the “Most Innovative Law Firm Leader” award by the Financial Times.
