Charles Russell Speechlys’ Appoints Lesley O’Leary as Chief Operating Officer

Charles Russell Speechlys is pleased to announce the appointment of Lesley O’Leary as its Chief Operating Officer. In this newly created role, Lesley will lead all Business Services professionals except Finance, working alongside Simon Ridpath, Managing Partner, and newly elected Senior Partner, Bart Peerless, supporting the firm’s growth aspirations and in the promotion of excellence across client service delivery.

Lesley joined the firm in 2017 as Director of Business Development and Marketing and has been a member of the firm’s executive committee since 2018. Last year, she was appointed Chief Marketing Officer, responsible for leading the firm’s overall marketing strategies, and Chair of the firm’s Client Council. Lesley has over 20 years of experience at some of the largest international professional services firms, with a proven track record of successful growth outcomes and ensuring that business experts establish and maintain good relationships with their clients.

Simon Ridpath, Managing Partner, Charles Russell Speechlys, said:

“I am thrilled that Lesley will be working alongside me to deliver operational excellence for both clients and our people. Her outstanding leadership capabilities, deep understanding of the firm, her approach to client service delivery and global experience across multiple functions, will prove invaluable as we continue to grow and expand the firm.”

Lesley O’Leary said:

“Simon has done a remarkable job in leading the firm, and I am excited to ensure we continue to adapt to the changing needs of our clients, empower our people, and ensure the firm delivers on its strategic imperatives.

"Charles Russell Speechlys is a firm in which everyone has value and contributes to the whole. A firm where clients sit very much at the centre of decisions and its approach - it’s never been a more exciting time to globalise the firm's operations, promote diversity and enhance its value for clients.”

Lesley will officially commence her new role from 1 May 2021.