Nixon Peabody LLP has selected Christopher Keefe as head of the firm’s business and finance department, comprised of the firm’s corporate, healthcare, global finance, and private clients practice groups.

Nixon Peabody’s business and finance department help clients tackle complex transactions in order to better serve their customers and create a positive impact on the communities where they work.

For the past two years, Chris has led Nixon Peabody’s corporate practice. In his nearly 24 years with the firm, Chris has represented industry-leading companies and funds in financings, corporate counseling, and mergers and acquisitions at all stages, working primarily in the technology, consumer goods, life sciences, and manufacturing industries as well as with the venture and private equity funds that invest in them.

In his new role, Keefe succeeds Stephen Zubiago, who was elected as Nixon Peabody’s CEO and managing partner earlier this year.

“Chris steps into this role amid unprecedented demand in the market, together with the challenges of businesses transitioning back to the office environment,” said Zubiago. “He helps our clients achieve their goals regardless of changing conditions, and he’ll bring that same formula to his leadership of the business and finance department.”

During his Corporate practice leadership, Chris oversaw the addition of high-profile lateral attorneys across practice areas, including tax, fund formation, mergers and acquisitions, cross-border transactions, and employee benefits and executive compensation.

“I am excited for this role, as it not only allows me to remain fully engaged in my practice, but also provides me with an opportunity to help shape the growth and strategic direction of our firm in a new way,” said Keefe. “Our primary goals are to drive the success of our clients and to continue to engage with the communities we serve while becoming stronger, deeper, and more inclusive.”