Miller Canfield Names A. Michael Palizzi as Chief Executive Officer

Palizzi is a respected trial lawyer and co-leader of the firm’s nationally recognized Litigation and Dispute Resolution and Intellectual Property Groups. For more than 30 years, Palizzi has represented clients in complex commercial litigation, intellectual property counseling and litigation, and other commercial matters. He was elected by the firm’s principals in 2021 to serve on the Board of Managing Directors.

“I am honored to take on this new role and humbled by the trust placed in me,” Palizzi said. In terms of priorities, he said that “we intend to remain exceptionally client focused. This is the foundation upon which our firm was built and why it has flourished over its storied 170+ year history.”

Palizzi acknowledged that the legal industry has changed dramatically over the past several years: “We expect that change will only accelerate, and therefore we remain committed to adapting through strategic growth, practice innovations, and building our exceptional and diverse talent base and areas of expertise. But the one thing that has remained constant is what clients expect from their law firm: exceptional legal counsel, responsiveness, and value. We have not, and will never, lose sight of that constant as we adapt to market changes.”

Palizzi added, “Fortunately, I’m surrounded by an unparalleled group of lawyers, professionals, and firm leaders, all of whom are committed to these principles. With their help, I am confident that we will become an even stronger, more diverse, and market-leading law firm.”

Palizzi will succeed Megan Norris, who is stepping down after serving as Chief Executive Officer since Feb. 2021. Prior to her role as Chief Executive Officer, Norris served as the Chair of the firm’s Board of Managing Directors and as the leader of Miller Canfield’s large and nationally acclaimed Employment and Labor Group.

“I am confident that Mike will serve the firm well. He has a leadership style that is forward-thinking, adaptable, and inclusive,” Norris said, “The firm will be in excellent hands with Mike at the helm.”

Palizzi lauded Norris’ steady leadership, especially post-pandemic and during the firm’s return to the office.

“Megan served as a selfless and stalwart leader during one of the most challenging times in recent history. I hope to build upon many of the initiatives that began under her leadership and am grateful for her commitment,” Palizzi said.

Michelle Crockett will continue to serve as the firm’s Deputy Executive Officer and Chief Diversity Officer.

“I have had the pleasure of serving the firm as a managing director alongside Mike and under Megan’s leadership. We are so thankful to Mike for his willingness to serve the firm in this new role, and to Megan, whose unwavering commitment to the best interests of our firm has aided in building a strong foundation that will move us forward by way of growth and achieving our strategic goals,” said Danielle Mason Anderson, Chair of Miller Canfield’s Managing Directors.