William Blair, a premier global investment banking, investment management and wealth management firm, today announced that, effective immediately, Brent Gledhill has been elevated to the role of President.
“Brent has been integral to the firm’s success,” said John Ettelson, who is continuing as CEO. “With Brent’s leadership and collaboration, we have opened offices around the world and completed strategic partnerships over the years that have enhanced our position as a premier, global boutique. As a member of the firm’s Executive Committee and Extended Leadership Group for more than 10 years, Brent is exceptionally equipped for this role as we expand the leadership bench, prepare for our future and undergo a thoughtful succession planning process.”
Gledhill brings to the role more than two decades of experience at William Blair, having joined the company in 1997 and serving as Global Head of Investment Banking since 2009. He has contributed to the firm’s rapid global expansion and enabled a world-class, global investment banking team that has delivered transactions successfully for clients in 30 countries, totaling a half trillion dollars since 2016.
“Throughout its 86-year history, William Blair has delivered successfully for clients by innovating, investing and collaborating to meet their dynamically changing needs during several economic cycles,” said Gledhill. “I am humbled and proud to take on this new role, serving my incredible colleagues in one of the fastest-growing firms and strongest partnership cultures in the world.”
Additionally, Matt Zimmer will step into the role of Global Head of Investment Banking, effective immediately. Mr. Zimmer currently serves as managing director and head of supply chain, commercial services and technologies. He joined William Blair’s investment banking team in 2007 and has worked in the firm’s Chicago and London offices.
“I’m thrilled to lead the investment banking business during this dynamic time for our firm,” Zimmer said. “Our collaborative culture amplified the contributions of our many talented leaders and team members around the globe, leading to a doubling of our investment banking business over the past 18 months alone. Our Investment Banking team today is stronger than ever, and I look forward to partnering with all of our colleagues to build upon the record-setting pace of growth for years to come.”
About William Blair
William Blair is the premier global boutique with expertise in investment banking, investment management, and private wealth management. We provide advisory services, strategies, and solutions to meet our clients’ evolving needs. As an independent and employee-owned firm, together with our strategic partners, we operate in more than 20 offices worldwide.*
*Includes strategic partnerships with Allier Capital, BDA Partners, and Poalim Capital Markets.