Sidley Names First Female Leader in Firm’s 155-Year History

Sidley Austin has elected Yvette Ostolaza as chair of its management committee, making her the first woman to lead the 155-year-old firm.

Ostolaza, managing partner of Sidley’s Dallas office and co-leader of its global litigation practice, will officially take over the role in April 2022. She succeeds longtime chair Larry Barden.

Ostolaza’s election follows a strong year for Sidley in which its gross revenue increased 5.4% to $2.46 billion and profits per equity partner jumped 9.8% to more than $3 million, according to recently published figures by the American Lawyer. The firm is keen to capitalize on its success and ...