Baker McKenzie Appoints Chief Financial Officer

Baker McKenzie has appointed William M. Washington III to the role of Chief Financial Officer. He joins from Hogan Lovells, where he most recently served as Chief Financial Officer (Americas).

William is a highly experienced finance professional, and prior to joining Hogan Lovells, he held senior finance roles at Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe and Crowell & Moring. In his recent leadership roles he has focused on driving financial performance through executing strategies to drive sustainable profitability, minimize operational risk, increase efficiency, and improve enterprise-level reporting. 

William takes up his new role at Baker McKenzie this week and will be based in Washington DC. 

Commenting on his appointment, Milton Cheng, Global Chair, Baker McKenzie, said: "After an extensive search, we have found a fantastic leader and finance professional in William. His deep experience, collaborative approach and strategic thinking make him an ideal candidate to help drive the next phase of our growth. 

"After a strong FY21, it is vital that we build on our momentum, whilst retaining the financial discipline that has helped us to navigate the pandemic. This appointment is an important step in that journey."

Commenting on his appointment, William said:  "Baker McKenzie is already in a strong financial position, with growing and diversified revenue streams, prudent cost and cash management, and a clear strategic vision for the next five years. I look forward to joining the Firm’s global leadership team to help drive this strategy forward, while continuing to build an industry leading finance function."

William holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Mississippi State University, an MBA from the University of Maryland University College and a Master’s in Law Firm Management from George Washington University.