Derek J. Hardesty Named COO of King & Spalding

ATLANTA, GA--(Marketwire - Jan 3, 2012) - Derek J. Hardesty, 41, a partner and the director of strategic projects at King & Spalding, has been appointed chief operating officer, King & Spalding announced today. He replaces Patrick C. Glisson, who retired at the end of 2011 after 12 years as the firm's COO.

In his new role, Hardesty will oversee the non-legal operations of the firm.

"Derek was a talented lawyer and has been a key member of the firm's management team for nearly 10 years. We are extremely pleased that he is taking on this new role," said Robert D. Hays, Jr., chairman of King & Spalding.

Said Hardesty, "This is an exciting time for King & Spalding. Over the last five years, even with the economic headwinds, the firm has achieved notable growth, opening 12 new offices and increasing its revenue by nearly $200 million. It is extremely well positioned for additional competitive gains, and I look forward to working with the many talented lawyers and professionals at King & Spalding as the firm continues to build on its success."

Hardesty joined the firm in 1995 as an associate in the products liability practice. After spending several years at McKinsey & Co. as a management consultant, he returned to the firm and practiced in the private equity arena before moving into firm management on a full-time basis in 2002. He was elected a partner in 2006 and most recently served as the firm's director of strategic projects, where he worked closely with the firm's chair, policy committee and practice and office leaders to design and execute the firm's strategy. Hardesty received a J.D. degree, magna cum laude, from Harvard University and a B.A. degree, summa cum laude, from Duke University.

About King & Spalding
Celebrating more than 125 years of service, King & Spalding is an international law firm that represents a broad array of clients, including half of the Fortune Global 100, with 800 lawyers in 17 offices in the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The firm has handled matters in over 160 countries on six continents and is consistently recognized for the results it obtains, uncompromising commitment to quality and dedication to understanding the business and culture of its clients. More information is available at www.kslaw.com.