CHICAGO (October 5, 2026)—Ashurst Perkins Coie is pleased to announce David Byrne has joined the firm as the Chief Business Development Officer, Americas. Based in the Chicago office, David will lead the Business Development team for the United States and will work closely with Adam Soames, the firm’s Global Chief Business Development Officer across the global firm to advance the firm’s wider client and business development strategy.
David brings more than 25 years of experience driving business development, marketing, client strategy, and growth initiatives across law firms and professional services organizations. His history includes leading global sales and marketing teams, strategic client programs, change initiatives, and performance improvement efforts.
“I am thrilled to welcome David to the firm to lead our team in the United States and work with me to shape a best-in-class global business development team and approach,” Adam Soames said. “His fresh perspective and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to build on our momentum across the United States and around the world.”
“As Ashurst Perkins Coie continues to grow, business development efforts are increasingly critical for connecting our lawyers and capabilities to client needs,” said Roger Wilkes, Global Co-Chief Operating Officer at Ashurst Perkins Coie. “David’s formidable background makes him ideal to assist the firm in deepening existing relationships with clients, fostering collaboration across offices and practices, and supporting the pursuit of strategic growth opportunities around the world.”
David most recently served as the Global Director of Client & Market Strategy at another global law firm, where he played a key role in driving client growth, strengthening market positioning, and advancing strategic priorities.
“This is an exciting time to be joining Ashurst Perkins Coie, as it continues its global expansion and its forward-looking approach to law,” David said. “I’m looking forward to joining this impressive team and supporting its tradition of innovation.”
David earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from the University of Leeds.
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