Rachel Proffitt

Rachel Proffitt is the Chief Executive Officer of Cooley LLP, a prominent global law firm. She assumed this role on January 1, 2024, succeeding Joe Conroy who had held the position since 2008.2 As the first-ever woman CEO of Cooley, Proffitt brings a wealth of experience and a vision for the firm's future.3

Career and Expertise

Prior to becoming CEO, Proffitt headed Cooley's San Francisco corporate practice and served on the firm's board of directors.2 She has built a robust corporate and securities law practice over her 21-year career, advising public and private companies, venture capital firms, investment banks, and other institutional investors across various industries.3

Proffitt joined Cooley in 2017 from Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati.3 At Cooley, she has held several leadership positions, including:

• Co-chair of the firm's legal education committee
• Member of the firm's strategic committee
• Member of the board nominating committee2

Leadership and Vision

As CEO, Proffitt's primary areas of focus include:

• Elevating Cooley's brand
• Shaping and executing the firm's strategic priorities
• Managing day-to-day operations
• Enhancing internal infrastructure and supporting innovation
• Reinforcing and strengthening the firm's unique culture2

Proffitt is known for her strategic thinking, deep understanding of Cooley's global practices, and commitment to the firm's core values.2 She aims to build on Cooley's success as a go-to law firm for companies defining the future of the modern economy, emphasizing a culture of inclusivity and an entrepreneurial spirit.4

Recognition

Proffitt has received several accolades for her legal expertise, including:

• Ranked in Chambers USA for Startups & Emerging Companies (Nationwide) and Venture Capital (California) from 2020 to 2024
• Named a Leading Lawyer in Venture Capital and Emerging Companies by The Legal 500 US in 2023
• Listed among Lawdragon's 500 Leading Dealmakers in America in 20241

Under Proffitt's leadership, Cooley aims to continue its growth trajectory and solidify its position as a dominant global law firm supporting high-growth companies and their investors at the intersection of innovation and disruption.4