Weil Taps Private Equity Partner to Succeed Longtime Leader Wolf

Weil Gotshal & Manges’ Barry Wolf will hand over the reins to private equity partner Ramona Nee next year, the firm said Tuesday.

Nee, who has served as a co-managing partner for more than a year, will share the executive partner role with Wolf beginning in January until he retires in 2027, according to the firm. The overlap will ensure a “smooth leadership transition” to a new leadership structure, Weil said in an announcement.

The move ends speculation about who would be next to run the firm after Wolf reached 68, Weil’s mandatory retirement age. Mike Aiello, the influential corporate partner overseeing a 600-lawyer department, chaired the committee that assisted with this succession planning process and has “accomplished its intended goals,” the firm said.

Jonathon Soler, a private funds partner who also served as co-managing partner, will be the firm’s sole managing partner when Nee is elevated next year. Nee will set the firm’s strategic direction and oversee financial performance, while Soler will be in charge of the firm’s operations, Weil said.

Wolf, who has led the firm for 16 years, will become a senior counsel at the firm at the start of 2028. The firm said Wolf will work part-time, giving advice on lateral partner recruiting and business development.

“Ramona is uniquely suited to guide Weil into its next chapter,” Wolf said in Tuesday’s prepared comments. “She exemplifies the leadership, the skills and the values essential to our continued growth, and will ensure that the Firm maintains its standing as a preeminent provider of legal services. I applaud her for her dedication and commitment to the future of our great Firm.”