Houston, Texas, Mar. 2, 2016 — Winstead shareholder Teresa Schneider has been named chief recruiting officer for the firm.  In this newly created position, she will lead talent acquisition efforts firm-wide, hiring attorneys at all levels for Winstead’s seven offices.  Schneider’s focus will be on growing Winstead’s business base by acquiring exceptional lateral talent.   

“Recruiting in this legal market is very competitive.  Many firms assign a lateral hiring partner to handle recruiting while also maintaining his/her legal practice,” said David Dawson, Winstead’s chairman and CEO.  “We felt this role required a more focused approach.  As Winstead’s chief recruiting officer, Teresa partners with leaders and decision makers to accomplish one of Winstead’s most important missions—finding good people.”

Schneider has practiced law with Winstead for over 25 years.  In her litigation practice, she has represented some of the firm’s top clients while also serving in various firm leadership roles.  Most recently, Schneider served as the firm’s director of professional development, leading all training and continuing education programs.  In this role, she created Winstead University, the firm’s advanced education program for lawyers and clients—responsible for almost 50 presentations a year.  Schneider has also led Winstead’s Women’s Alliance, Diversity Committee, and Pro Bono Committee.

“I enjoy working with various departments and leaders in the firm,” said Schneider. “I know Winstead well and I can provide detailed information to candidates on the work environment and culture at Winstead.  It’s a great privilege to lead the firm’s efforts in growing strategically through smart talent acquisition.  I enjoy meeting the lateral candidates and hearing what they are looking for in their next position.”

Winstead has enjoyed significant lateral recruiting success with steady growth over the past three years.  In 2015, Winstead hired nearly 50 laterals.  Schneider expects 2016 to be another good year for the firm.  She says Winstead has already hired eight laterals this year and the firm is in discussions with several potential candidates.  Schneider said the firm is currently looking at candidates with corporate, environmental, finance and banking, and health care legal experience and that a large focus area in 2016 will be the Houston market.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Shannon Tipton
214.745.5308
stipton@winstead.com