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Merrick Benn Speaks on “Angling Financial Strategy Amidst an Elevated M&A Landscape” at Thomson Reuters Institute Law Firm COO & CFO Forum
Oct 29 2025
Contributors
Womble Bond Dickinson Chair & CEO Merrick Benn was among the speakers at the Thomson Reuters Institute’s 24th Annual Law Firm COO & CFO Forum. Benn took part in a panel discussion titled, “Shape Shifting: Angling Financial Strategy Amidst an Elevated M&A Landscape”.
As the legal industry faces increasing consolidation and competitive pressure, the role of the Chief Financial Officer is rapidly evolving from traditional financial stewardship to strategic partnership. A modern law firm CFO is expected to network extensively and enable growth potential by leveraging data, insights, and financial foresight to guide firm leadership through mergers, acquisitions, and long-term strategic planning. This discussion explores how forward-thinking firms are redefining the CFO role to drive profitability, operational efficiency, and sustainable expansion potential, leaving behind the “green eyeshade” model in favor of value-focused leadership.
Benn was joined in the conversation by Citi Global Wealth at Work Managing Director Michael McKenney and Troutman Pepper CFO Greg Saulinskas. Caldwell Partners Principal Charlotte Croker moderated the discussion.
In a follow-up LinkedIn post, Croker made the following observations about the discussion: “CFOs are increasingly data-driven strategists, using analytics and forecasting to influence firmwide decision-making.
- With M&A activity rising, CFOs play a central role in evaluating opportunities, managing risk, and leading integration beyond the financials.
- The CFO role now extends into culture, leadership, and innovation - not just profitability.
- Law firms that empower their CFOs as proactive, cross-functional leaders are best equipped to navigate market consolidation and sustain long-term success.”
Benn noted that many attendees mentioned the respect they have for Womble CFO Mike Duggar and his work in helping lead this sea change in which law firm CFOs now are considered trusted, strategic advisors to their boards.
The Thomson Reuters Institute Law Firm COO & CFO Forum took place October 22-23 in Washington, D.C. The annual event brings together senior executives to explore cutting-edge trends in law firm management, with a specific focus on financial and operational functions.
