Ira Coleman is the chairman 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—encapsulated in the mantra of #AlwaysBetter. Since then, the Firm has achieved the strongest upward trajectory among big law firms, become a magnet for top talent, and expanded its practices and geographic footprint.

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 continues to practice 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.

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• The American Lawyer, Managing Partner of the Year, 2024
• Financial Times, Most Innovative Law Firm Leader, 2021
• Daily Business Review, Distinguished Leaders, 2021
• Chambers USA, Band 1 in Healthcare, 2007-2024
• The Legal 500 US, 2016

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Education
University of Miami School of Law, LLM, 1987
Nova Southeastern University, Shepard Broad Law Center, JD, 1986
State University of New York – Albany, BA, 1983

Admissions
Florida
District of Columbia