LOS ANGELES- Liebert Cassidy Whitmore is excited to announce a pivotal leadership transition as Melanie L. Chaney, Los Angeles Office Managing Partner, assumes the role of Firmwide Co-Managing Partner, effective October 1, 2024. Chaney joins current Firmwide Managing Partner J. Scott Tiedemann, ushering in a new era for the firm. This strategic move sets the stage for Scott’s planned transition on October 1, 2025, when he will step down from his Managing Partner role after an impressive 15-year tenure to focus full-time on his legal practice.
Strong and visionary leadership is at the core of LCW’s continued success. By prioritizing thoughtful succession planning, we demonstrate our commitment to the firm’s future and drive sustained growth, innovation, and stability. This proactive approach strengthens our internal leadership pipeline, fostering employee development, engagement, and retention. Chaney’s ascension to Firmwide Managing Partner marks a significant milestone, as she becomes the fourth leader in LCW’s distinguished 45-year history and the second woman to hold this prestigious position.
J. Scott Tiedemann’s transformative leadership has been instrumental in propelling LCW to new heights of growth and success. His strategic acumen, unwavering commitment to clients, and dedicated guidance have been the cornerstone of the firm’s remarkable achievements over the past 15 years. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Scott for his exceptional stewardship and tireless dedication. After his transition from the Managing Partner role, Scott will remain an integral part of the LCW family, focusing his expertise on full-time legal practice and direct client service.
As we look forward to this new chapter, we are thrilled to have Melanie L. Chaney step into the role of Firmwide Managing Partner. Melanie’s wealth of experience, innovative mindset, and dynamic leadership have been pivotal in shaping LCW’s trajectory. Her commitment to excellence and forward-thinking vision align seamlessly with our core values, instilling confidence that under her guidance, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore will continue to flourish and break new ground.
The coming year will see Scott and Melanie working in close collaboration to ensure a smooth and energizing transition. Their combined expertise and shared passion for the firm’s success will prove invaluable as we continue to deliver exceptional service to our clients and further our mission of providing top-tier legal support.
“Scott’s impact on the firm has been profound and far-reaching,” said Melanie L. Chaney. “I am deeply honored to step into this role alongside him and am excited to build upon the legacy of excellence that John Liebert initiated, Melanie Poturica advanced, and Scott has so effectively amplified.”
“I am delighted to welcome Melanie as our new Firmwide Managing Partner,” remarked Scott Tiedemann. “Her exceptional leadership prowess and innovative vision make her the ideal choice to guide the firm into a bright future. I have full confidence in her ability to elevate LCW to even greater heights, and I look forward to supporting the firm’s continued success through my legal practice.”
As we embark on this exciting leadership transition, we reaffirm our steadfast commitment to our clients, our values, and our mission. With Melanie at the helm and Scott’s continued dedication to client service, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore is poised to not only continue but enhance our tradition of excellence and leadership in the legal community.
Background on Melanie L. Chaney
Melanie L. Chaney, Firm Co-Managing Partner, stands as an exemplary leader in the legal field, distinguished by her expertise as a negotiator and litigator, and her unwavering dedication to collaboration and inclusivity.
Beyond her legal prowess, what truly sets Melanie apart is her commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, where diverse perspectives are valued, and collaboration thrives. Her journey to leadership has been shaped by a practical and comprehensive approach that emphasizes listening to and valuing the input of all team members. Melanie’s ability to foster strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders underscores her recognition of the importance of teamwork in achieving successful outcomes. Her exceptional listening skills are a cornerstone of her leadership style, going beyond mere hearing to actively understand, validate, and appreciate the viewpoints of others. This empathetic approach fosters an inclusive environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and motivated to contribute their best.
Melanie’s strength in providing constructive feedback with tact and consideration as LCW’s Los Angeles Office Managing Partner contributes to a positive and growth-oriented work culture. Understanding that feedback is a tool for fostering growth and improvement, Melanie’s thoughtful, supportive, and empowering view enables individuals to develop their skills and reach their full potential.
In facilitating consensus and teamwork, Melanie shines as a collaborative leader. Her ability to bring people together, bridge gaps, and find common ground is truly remarkable. Navigating complex situations and guiding diverse groups toward shared goals, Melanie’s bona fide approach ensures that all stakeholders feel involved, engaged, and invested in the collaborative process. This fosters a strong team spirit and unity among stakeholders, making a lasting impact on her firm, clients, and colleagues.
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Liebert Cassidy Whitmore serves as trusted advisors to public agencies, educational institutions, and nonprofits across California. Our legal experts provide client focused services as trusted advisors in litigation, labor relations, negotiations, employment, education, business, and construction. LCW delivers vital web-based and live training to clients, proactively helping them avoid problems. Leveraging decades of expertise, we conduct impartial workplace investigations for California’s businesses. Visit www.lcwlegal.com for more information.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Cynthia Weldon
Director of Marketing & Training
310.981.2055
cweldon@lcwlegal.com