Labor and employment attorney Devon Williams is taking on a new role at Ward and Smith.
Devon has been named Section Leader of the Labor and Employment Practice, effective June 3. In that role, Devon is responsible for a group of labor and employment attorneys, paralegals, and legal assistants, and is in charge of strategic planning, practice management, the efficient delivery of services, marketing, and section profitability.
Devon joined Ward and Smith in 2012. Since then, her labor and employment practice has grown immensely, earning local and national praise from clients and peers. Most recently, North Carolina Super Lawyers named her a '2019 Rising Star.' Business North Carolina also recognized Devon as a '2019 Legal Elite' and, in 2018 she was selected for Benchmark Litigation's first-ever Labor and Employment guide, in addition to being picked for that publication's '40 and Under Hot List.'
Devon succeeds firm leader Ken Gray, who has held the position since 2006.
"When I decided to step down as Section Leader, I couldn't think of a better attorney to pass the torch to than Devon," Ken remarked. "In a short time, she has proven herself to be an exceptional attorney who is trustworthy, reliable, professional, and - most of all - a valuable asset to her clients and this firm. I look forward to watching Devon as she continues the firm’s commitment to delivering outstanding service to our clients."
Ward and Smith's Co-Managing Director Ken Wooten agreed adding, "We think about how we can not only better serve our clients, but also give our attorneys more opportunities to lead and grow." He continued, "Ken Gray is stepping down while he still has many years to practice to make more room at the table for more voices to be heard. That's the very definition of leadership. And Devon Williams is the perfect person to take our Labor and Employment practice into the future."
Devon will continue to advise and represent companies and employers on a wide range of labor and employment issues including wage and hour matters, federal contractor compliance, employment discrimination and harassment, employee discipline and termination, personnel policies, background checks, and Affordable Care Act compliance, to name a few.
