In an exciting development, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP (BCLP) has named Tom Lee as the new office managing partner in San Francisco. This seasoned environmental lawyer and litigator, with over a decade of experience at BCLP, takes the reins from Seth Frederiksen, who has successfully led the San Francisco office for the past six years. Frederiksen, while stepping down from this role, will continue as the joint leader of BCLP's global transactions team.

Tom Lee is well-versed in environmental law and litigation, offering strategic counsel on transactions, compliance, and enforcement defense in environmental matters. His expertise extends to the real estate and food and agribusiness sectors, where he has provided invaluable assistance to clients in navigating compliance and litigation challenges associated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as "forever chemicals" or PFAS. Notably, Tom Lee leads the firm's PFAS team, showcasing his commitment to addressing crucial environmental issues.

In a statement to Law360, Tom Lee shared his journey with Bryan Cave, saying, "I've been with Bryan Cave for my whole legal career. I started as a summer associate in the New York office and began my career here in San Francisco. I have been so fortunate to be at a firm surrounded by people that I respect and enjoy spending time with and working with." He expressed his dedication to giving back to the firm and his colleagues.

At the age of 40, Tom Lee's dynamic leadership as office managing partner is set to make a significant impact. While he may not be the most senior by age, his extensive relationships across the firm make him a valuable resource for the office. He is keen to enhance office camaraderie and unity, particularly after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Navigating the path back from the pandemic, Tom Lee plans to focus on restoring aspects such as training, mentoring, and strengthening cohesion among the office members. With a penchant for team-building, he envisions activities like United Way service projects and community involvement outside the office.

Moreover, he aims to bolster pro bono opportunities, emphasizing collaboration to make a positive impact on the community. "I want us to do something together to help those around us and find opportunities to connect with each other through work but also outside of work as much as we can," he emphasized.

Tom Lee's professional journey intersects with his personal life, as BCLP's San Francisco office is where he met his wife, Goli Mahdavie, an attorney specializing in data privacy and cybersecurity. In a move to avoid any conflicts, Goli Mahdavie will continue to be supervised by the outgoing Managing Partner Seth Frederiksen.

Hailing from Connecticut, Tom Lee is a 2009 graduate of Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law. BCLP hired him fresh out of law school, initially placing him in its New York office. However, the financial crisis led to a delayed start, and in the meantime, he relocated to San Francisco. This fortuitous move resulted in him becoming the 13th litigator in the office.

Reflecting on his journey, he expressed gratitude to Bryan Cave for honoring their offers when many other firms didn't during that period. He embraced the opportunity to start his legal career in California and has found it to be a wonderful experience, aligning perfectly with his interests in environmental law.

In his new role as the office managing partner, Tom Lee plans to continue his environmental law practice alongside his leadership responsibilities. He credits his parents for sparking his interest in environmental matters and cherishes the blend of intellectual engagement and practical business application that the field offers.

For Tom Lee, it's all about understanding how facilities operate, what consumer products can or cannot contain, and contributing to a tangible element that makes a significant difference across various industries.

The appointment of Tom Lee heralds a fresh chapter for Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner in San Francisco, promising a harmonious blend of legal acumen and dynamic leadership.