Holland & Knight Boston Attorney, Deb Barnard, Appointed New Professional Growth and Development Partner For The Firm

BOSTON– February 1, 2011 – Holland & Knight Managing Partner, Steven Sonberg announced that Deb Barnard, an attorney in the firm's Boston office has been appointed Professional Growth and Development Partner, a newly formed role designed to create and enhance the firm's professional development programs.

"This new role emphasizes Holland & Knight's longstanding commitment to our people as well as our reputation for innovative solutions," Sonberg said. "Deb will be in charge of a comprehensive program that addresses all of our attorneys. It will make it easier for everyone to develop all aspects of their skills all the time - from 'recruiting to retirement'. I am delighted that she has accepted this position."

Barnard's main role will be to design and implement a comprehensive program focusing on the recruitment and career development of all of the firm's professionals, including the partners. The position will encompass all aspects of the development of the firm's professionals in all phases of their careers.

Barnard and Sonberg will work closely to evaluate the current professional development and recruiting structure and seek the input of the firm's Section Leaders and other members of senior management as the effort progresses.

"I am looking forward to working with Steve and others in senior management to chart a course that not only attracts new attorneys, but strengthens the environment in which all of our existing attorneys can grow and prosper to best serve our clients," Barnard said.

The firm recently made a number of high-profile promotions within management. Miami Partner John Hogan will become the firm's head of the Litigation Section; Tampa Partner Mike Chapman will become the firm's General Counsel; and Miami Partner Adolfo Jimenez was named head of the South Florida Litigation Group.