Benesch is pleased to announce that Robert Ward has joined the firm as a partner in its Corporate Practice Group in Columbus. An experienced transactional attorney, Rob advises private equity sponsors, portfolio companies, and publicly and privately held companies on a broad range of strategic commercial transactions across the software and technology, manufacturing, professional services and consumer products industries.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Rob to Benesch,” said Kevin Humphries, co-chair of the firm’s Corporate Practice Group. “In addition to his strong M&A experience, Rob’s arrival enhances our capabilities in ESOP transactions and will be invaluable as we support clients navigating increasingly complex deal environments.”
“I’m excited to join Benesch at such a pivotal time in the firm’s growth,” said Rob. “The Corporate Practice Group has built strong momentum, and the firm’s collaborative culture and entrepreneurial approach provide an excellent platform to continue expanding my transactional practice.”
Rob represents clients in mergers and acquisitions, recapitalizations, joint ventures and other complex transactions. He brings substantial experience structuring and implementing ESOP transactions, including pre-closing reorganizations, tax planning and elections, purchase agreement negotiation, financing arrangements and the design of post-closing executive compensation programs.
Prior to joining Benesch, Rob was a partner at Calfee, Halter & Griswold. Earlier in his career, he served as Director of Legal for Circulo Health, a Columbus-based healthcare technology startup. He also practiced at Squire Patton Boggs.
Rob earned his J.D. from The Ohio State University Mortiz College of Law and his B.S., summa cum laude, from The Ohio State University.
Benesch’s Columbus office has nearly doubled in size over the past two years, reflecting sustained strategic growth in the region. Now home to nearly 50 attorneys, the office continues to expand its bench strength across corporate, healthcare, litigation, commercial finance and banking, not-for-profit law and government relations.