Stephen D. Zubiago
CEO and Managing Partner
Introduction
Stephen D. Zubiago is CEO and Managing Partner of Nixon Peabody LLP, an AmLaw 100 firm committed to delivering positive results to our clients and to the communities we serve.
Stephen leads 1,250 colleagues, including 600 attorneys, in 15 offices across the United States and worldwide. As a healthcare lawyer and experienced industry leader, Stephen understands that client service is at the core of everything we do. He knows that great client service emanates from establishing trusting relationships, building deep and diverse teams of problem-solvers, and seeking solutions with energy and enthusiasm.
My focus
In my role as CEO and Managing Partner, I lead a team of firm partners and experienced professionals responsible for managing the firm’s business and strategic initiatives. Our firm has enjoyed great success in recent years, and we are confident in our future, with excellence in client service as our guiding principle.
I am focused on enhancing relationships with our clients, establishing relationships with new clients, expanding our knowledge of client industries, attracting and retaining top talent, and anticipating and capitalizing on future opportunities that can contribute to our clients’ success.
Looking ahead
The legal industry is rapidly changing as clients require industry focused services in order to compete and thrive. We will enhance our industry focused teams in order to provide services that our clients value, and expand our efforts to build a diverse and inclusive firm, reflecting our clients and the communities we serve.
In the news
- Bloomberg Law
Amedisys avoids whistleblower’s bid to revive hospice fraud suit
Feb 14, 2025This article covers a Fourth Circuit decision that denies a whistleblower from reviving a lawsuit accusing Amedisys North Carolina LLC of fraudulent Medicare and Medicaid billing. NP is mentioned in the article for representing defendants Amedisys North Carolina, Amedisys Holding, and related entities. The NP team representing Amedisys includes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago, and Boston Government Investigation & White-Collar Defense partners Brian Kelly and Brian French.
- Law360
Nixon Peabody elevates longtime controller to finance chief
Jan 8, 2025This article covers the selection of longtime NP controller Susan Tripi as the firm’s Chief Financial Officer. Susan is quoted in the coverage, discussing the transformation of the legal industry and what she looks forward to in the role. Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago and Chief Operating Officer Rich McCarthy are also quoted in the article from the firm’s press release.
- Law360
Nixon Peabody promotes longtime CFO to COO
Nov 14, 2024This article covers the elevation of longtime Chief Financial Officer Rich McCarthy to Chief Operating Officer. Rich is quoted in the coverage, discussing his goals for the role, implementation of the firm’s strategic plan, and core aspects of NP’s culture. Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago is also quoted in the article.
- Law360
Over 360 firms gain Mansfield Certification in record cohort
Oct 2, 2024This article covers the group of firms that earned Mansfield Certification for the 2023 to 2024 period. Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago is quoted in the coverage from Diversity Lab’s announcement, noting the significant strides NP has made to create positive change through the firm’s internal initiatives and industry partnerships. Our firm has earned Certification Plus for the seventh consecutive year.
- Law360
Nixon Peabody creates new role to aid attorney mental health
Oct 2, 2024This article highlights the NP arrival of Director of Engagement and Performance Optimization Carla Lempera, who is based in the Chicago office. Carla is quoted in the coverage, discussing why she chose to join NP, how her skills align with the role, and what she hopes to accomplish at the firm. Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago and Providence partner and Chief Talent Officer Stacie Collier are also quoted from NP’s press release.
- The Bond Buyer
Nixon Peabody elevates public finance attorneys
April 18, 2024This article features the recent promotions of Chicago partner Gretchen Sherwood, San Francisco counsel Dia Walrath, and New York City counsel Sebastian Torres, all of the Project Finance & Public Finance practice. Gretchen, Dia, and Sebastian are quoted in the coverage discussing the focus of their practices. The article also quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago and Providence partner and Chief Talent Officer Stacie Collier on how the new partner and counsel classes exemplify NP’s purpose and how these attorneys have blazed their own trails within the firm.
- The American Lawyer
Middle-market M&A, litigation helped Nixon Peabody break revenue record in 2023
March 1, 2024This article covering NP’s annual results highlights the firm’s record revenue in fiscal year 2023 as well as the firm’s success in middle-market M&A, healthcare, IP, and affordable housing. The article quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago as he reflects on the previous year and shares his outlook for 2024.
- The American Lawyer
Nixon Peabody targets 30% women equity partners by 2025, as firm hires DEI leader
Feb 16, 2024This article features the NP arrival of Ramla Farzad, Senior Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. The article, which highlights the firm’s Move the Needle goal of having 30% women equity partners by 2025, quotes Ramla and Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on the firm’s DEI initiatives.
- Nashville Post
Legal notes
Dec 14, 2023This roundup article of recent legal industry news in the Nashville area mentions Corporate partner-elect and Entertainment team member Farrah Usmani’s promotion to partner effective February 1, 2024. The article also includes a quote from Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago commenting on NP’s 2024 new partner class.
- Law.com/Corporate Counsel
The 2023 WIPL Awards: Law Firm Ally of the Year
Nov 20, 2023A Q&A with Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago is featured in this article spotlighting the 2023 Women, Influence & Power in Law Award winners for “Law Firm Ally of the Year.” Steve shares insights on his route to the top, key lessons learned throughout his career, and the best leadership advice he’s received.
- Law360
Hub Hires
Oct 2, 2023This roundup of notable legal industry moves in the Boston region includes the NP arrivals of General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer Bill Connolly and Affordable Housing & Real Estate partner Kristen Fallon. Kristen is quoted in this article along with Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago.
- Law.com / Corporate Counsel
Corporate Counsel announces its 2023 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards
Aug 25, 2023This article announcing honorees for the 2023 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards names Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago in the category or “Ally of the Year,” recognizing those who listen with empathy, seek to understand different perspectives, and speak up as advocates to others.
- Boston Business Journal
Big law firms are mandating return-to-office. Small firms see an opportunity.
Aug 2, 2023This article, covering news that several Boston-area law firms are increasing their mandated in-office days, mentions NP for the firm’s progressive and flexible hybrid work policies. The story notes that hybrid work continues to be effective at the firm and mentions Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago for reaffirming our firm’s policy this week.
- Providence Business News
Revived CEO Council wants to build connections between business leaders in upcoming summit
Feb 27, 2023This article mentions Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago, who will interview Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan for his economic outlook and insights during a March 23 summit of Rhode Island business leaders.
- Boston Business Journal
CEO of Nixon Peabody discusses DEI and the future of the legal industry
Feb 24, 2023In this article, Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago discusses our firm’s DEI initiatives, NP’s success in attracting and retaining talent, and how we have incorporated greater diversity in our firm’s leadership positions. He also covers how the legal profession continues to evolve and his outlook for the broader business community.
- Law360
Nixon Peabody promotes eight attorneys to partner
Feb 2, 2023This article spotlights the 2023 new partner class, which includes Long Island Healthcare partner Jason Chimon; Boston Intellectual Property partner Ravi Braich; New York City Complex Disputes partner Alper Tosun; Affordable Housing & Real Estate partners Julia Casteleiro, Ari Glatt, and Kathie Soroka of New York and Ian O’Banion from San Francisco; and Washington, DC Community Development Finance partner Emily McKinney. The article also quotes CEO and Managing Partner Steve Zubiago.
- Providence Business News
Leaders & Achievers 2022
Aug 19, 2022This article profiles Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago following his recognition as one of the publication’s “Leaders and Achievers” for 2022. Steve discusses how NP has been able to maintain outstanding client service, attract and retain top talent, and embrace the opportunity to make transformational changes to reach the firm’s goals despite challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Boston Business Journal
Nixon Peabody names Jim Vallee managing partner in Boston
This article highlights the appointment of Jim Vallee as managing partner of the firm’s Boston office, mentioning his military service and details of his time on Beacon Hill as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. The article also quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago and mentions former Boston office managing partner Chris Froeb, and his selection to lead the firm’s Affordable Housing & Real Estate practice.July 25, 2022 - Providence Business News
PBN announces 2022 Leaders & Achievers honorees
This article highlights Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago as one of the publication’s 2022 Leaders & Achievers honorees. The article notes that the honorees were selected “based on their leadership, achievements, and longstanding commitment to the business community,” and for their “community service and mentoring efforts throughout the region.”July 8, 2022 - The American Lawyer
'Burying the hatchet': Law firms find good reason to court 'boomerang' partners
This article covering a trend of attorneys returning to their prior firms features NP for the firm’s recent “boomerangs.” The story quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago and Chief Talent Officer and Providence Labor & Employment partner Stacie Collier for context on the trend, and also quotes New York Corporate partner Kevin Grant related to his recent move back to NP.April 11, 2022 - Law360
Big law firm leaders back New Yorks clean slate bill
This article mentions Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago for joining nearly 50 firms in signing a memo urging New York state lawmakers to pass proposed clean slate legislation that would automatically seal certain convictions.March 7, 2022 - The Boston Globe
2021 was a good year for the lawyers
This article covering how local big law firms performed in 2021 quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on NP’s growth practice areas, a continued increase in headcount to meet client demand, and uncertainties for the US economy as a result of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the anticipated rise in interest rates.March 7, 2022 - The American Lawyer
Nixon Peabody grows revenue 7.8% in new chair's first year
This article, based on a conversation with Managing partner and CEO Steve Zubiago, profiles NP’s FY2021 performance and notes that M&A, real estate, tax syndication work, and white-collar litigation drove the firm’s growth during the year.March 2, 2022 - Bloomberg Law
Nixon Peabody elevates diversity director to C-suite
The following article features the promotion of Rekha Chiruvolu to Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer, noting her points of focus for the DEI program and her close collaboration with Pro Bono & Social Impact Director Sharmaine Heng to expand our positive impact as a firm. Law360 also quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on Rekha’s passion for DEI in the legal profession.Jan 11, 2022 - Law360
Nixon Peabody elevates diversity director to C-suite
The following article features the promotion of Rekha Chiruvolu to Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer, noting her points of focus for the DEI program and her close collaboration with Pro Bono & Social Impact Director Sharmaine Heng to expand our positive impact as a firm. Law360 also quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on Rekha’s passion for DEI in the legal profession.Jan 11, 2022 - The American Lawyer
Nixon Peabody elevates Chief Diversity Officer role as it looks to expand DEI programming
The following article features the promotion of Rekha Chiruvolu to Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer, noting her points of focus for the DEI program and her close collaboration with Pro Bono & Social Impact Director Sharmaine Heng to expand our positive impact as a firm. Law360 also quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on Rekha’s passion for DEI in the legal profession.Jan 11, 2022 - Bloomberg Law
By the numbers: The Big Law stories that mattered most in 2021
This article, which looks at the most significant Big Law news from 2021, quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on NP’s progressive and flexible work options and how our firm has maintained service levels and continued to meet client needs.Dec 27, 2021 - Law360
Nixon Peabody adds director of pro bono, social impact
This article announces the arrival of Director of Pro Bono & Social Impact Sharmaine Heng while highlighting our firm’s deep commitment to social impact. Sharmaine discusses what attracted her to NP and explains how creating a cohesive social impact strategy involves looking at all of our work through a different lens. The article also quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on Sharmaine’s vision for building on our successes and achieving our pro bono and social impact goals.Dec 17, 2021 - Business Insider
Junior lawyers tell us why they refuse to go back to the office even though their Big Law firms require it
This article, focusing on the work-from-home landscape for Big Law associates, quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on the flexibility of the firm’s progressive workplace policies, and how our partners are respecting junior attorneys’ boundaries.Dec 14, 2021 - Bloomberg Law
Big Law says goodbye to five-day in-office work weeks (video)
This video of law firm leaders discussing the evolving state of office return plans features Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago discussing our firm’s progressive and flexible work policies.Dec 8, 2021 - Bloomberg Law
Why law firms take differing paths on office returns: Explained
The following article covering law firms’ evolving office return plans quote Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on our firm’s progressive and flexible work options, how these policies will help maximize NP’s position in terms of attracting and retaining top talent, and how our firm has maintained service levels and continued to meet client needs throughout the pandemic.Nov 10, 2021 - Bloomberg Law
Big Law agrees: Give attorneys flexibility as offices reopen
The following article covering law firms’ evolving office return plans quote Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on our firm’s progressive and flexible work options, how these policies will help maximize NP’s position in terms of attracting and retaining top talent, and how our firm has maintained service levels and continued to meet client needs throughout the pandemic.Nov 10, 2021 - The American Lawyer
Contrary to popular belief, many junior attorneys want to work in the office
This return-to-office article focused on junior attorneys’ in-office preferences quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on some of the proactive steps NP is taking to ensure associates continue their development and receive the support they need, while also acknowledging the isolation many junior attorneys could be experiencing from working remotely in small apartments.Oct 28, 2021 - Reuters
Dechert opts for once-a-week office return as more firms go hybrid
In this article covering several firms’ upcoming return-to-office plans, Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago is quoted on NP’s early October reopening, our firm’s progressive and flexible work options, and the future of work within a law firm.Oct 26, 2021 - Wall Street Journal
Covid-19 threatens to blow up law firms' intense office culture—for good
This article, which analyzes the increasing demand for working-from-home models in the legal industry and how it’s shifting the workplace and law firm culture, quotes managing partner and CEO Steve Zubiago regarding NP’s remote and flexible work arrangements, their benefits, and how the firm is offering these work models to both current and prospective attorneys.Aug 6, 2021 - Providence Business News
Five questions with: Stephen D. Zubiago
Managing partner and CEO Steve Zubiago is featured in this Q&A article on NP’s work with Move the Needle and the Mansfield Rule, the headway the firm has made to these commitments, and the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion to the firm.Aug 6, 2021 - Boston Business Journal
‘See you Tuesday’: Mass. companies expect empty offices on Mondays, Fridays
This article, covering anticipated changes to the workweek and flexible schedules that many companies are now offering, quotes CEO and managing partner Steve Zubiago on NP’s remote- and flex-work policies, which are set to take effect on September 7, and the hybrid trends that may emerge overtime.June 22, 2021 - The Deal
Movers & Shakers
This column of notable executive news highlights the selection of Boston Corporate partner Christopher Keefe to lead the Business & Finance Department. CEO and managing partner Steve Zubiago is mentioned for previously holding that role.May 18, 2021 - Law360
Law360 names attorneys who moved up the firm ranks in Q1
This roundup article of notable Q1 partner-level promotions includes Steve Zubiago’s election to CEO and managing partner; Long Island partner Tara Daub’s and Los Angeles partner Ben Kim’s promotions to Labor & Employment practice group leader and deputy PGL, respectively; and the attorneys from this year’s new partner class.May 7, 2021 - Bloomberg Law
Sanford Heisler to require vaccinations for returning lawyers
This article, covering how law firms are approaching vaccinations and a return to the office, quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on how Nixon Peabody is strongly encouraging our firm’s people to schedule vaccines as soon as they are eligible.April 15, 2021 - Bloomberg Law
Greenberg Traurig leaders reconnect with firm on RV road trip
This article, on how law firms are reconnecting with lawyers and professional colleagues, quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago related to NP’s current targeted return-to-office date of July 6.April 13, 2021 - The American Lawyer
Dozens of big firm leaders and GCs speak out against unnecessary obstacles to voting
This article mentions Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago, who on behalf of NP joined leaders of other AmLaw 100 firms and several general counsel in signing a statement reiterating the importance of equal access to voting.April 12, 2021 - Rhode Island Lawyers Weekly
With vaccinations rolling out - law firms eyeing office return
This article covering firms’ return-to-office plans quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on NP’s intention to get back to the office shortly after July 4, while reiterating that the firm will make a final determination at the end of May.March 26, 2021 - The American Lawyer
Some firms eye summer return to office, while others rule out a 2021 return completely
This article on return-to-office plans and the future of remote work quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on NP’s hope to return shortly after July 4, noting the firm will assess the state of the pandemic, vaccination programs, and local regulations, and could decide to delay until after Labor Day.March 5, 2021 - Law360
Hub Hires: Nixon, Foley, Goulston, Prince Lobel
This roundup of notable moves in the Boston legal market during February highlights Steve Zubiago’s elevation to Managing Partner and CEO, as well as Andrew Glincher’s transition to his new role of Senior Chairman and partner.Feb 26, 2021 - Law360
‘We all lost a year’: Boston attorneys return to changed Hub
This article looking at the return-to-office landscape in Boston quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on balancing an eagerness to get back to the office with the safety and health of our clients and colleagues.Feb 19, 2021 - American Lawyer
Rethinking the office: three questions about the legal workplace
This article, which examines the legal workplace in a post-pandemic future, quotes Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago on challenges that a large-scale return to the office could present for working parents.Feb 19, 2021 - Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly
Promotions
This roundup of recent executive announcements includes Steve Zubiago’s appointment as Managing Partner and CEO of the firm, as well as the partner promotions of Boston’s Stephanie Bruno, of the Private Clients group, and Josh Sharp, of the Government Investigations & White Collar Defense group.Feb 11, 2021 - The Washington Post
Washington-area appointments and promotions
The following article covers Steve Zubiago’s appointment as Managing Partner and CEO of Nixon Peabody.Feb 7, 2021 - New York Law Journal
Fordham Law professor Rebecca Kysar joins the Biden Administration
The following article covers Steve Zubiago’s appointment as Managing Partner and CEO of Nixon Peabody.Feb 5, 2021 - Bloomberg Radio
Baystate Business
Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago joined the radio program to discuss his new role, strategic priorities in Boston and across the country, and how we have navigated the pandemic’s challenges to position NP for future success. The hosts also mentioned Senior Chairman and Partner Andrew Glincher for leading the firm over the past 10 years.Feb 3, 2021 - The Daily Record
Nixon Peabody names new managing partner
This article features Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago’s appointment to the helm of the firm, highlighting his leadership of the Business & Finance Department over the past decade. Senior Chairman and Partner Andrew Glincher is also mentioned for serving in the role for 10 years.Feb 2, 2021 - The American Lawyer
As Nixon Peabody Considers West Coast Growth, New Leader Steps In
The following article features Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago’s appointment to the helm of the firm, highlighting his leadership of the Business & Finance Department over the past decade as well as some of his initial priorities in his new role. Senior Chairman and Partner Andrew Glincher is also quoted extensively on his proudest accomplishments during his tenure.Feb 1, 2021 - Boston Globe
New CEO takes over at Nixon Peabody
This feature article on Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago highlights his appointment to the helm of the firm, his leadership as head of the Business & Finance Department in the past decade, and some of his initial priorities in his new role. Senior Chairman and Partner Andrew Glincher is also quoted extensively on his proudest accomplishments during his tenure.Feb 1, 2021 - Providence Business News
Nixon Peabody elects Zubiago CEO and managing partner
The following article features Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago’s appointment to the helm of the firm, highlighting his leadership of the Business & Finance Department over the past decade as well as some of his initial priorities in his new role. Senior Chairman and Partner Andrew Glincher is also quoted extensively on his proudest accomplishments during his tenure.Feb 1, 2021 - Boston Business Journal
Nixon Peabody taps new CEO and managing partner
The following article features Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago’s appointment to the helm of the firm, highlighting his leadership of the Business & Finance Department over the past decade as well as some of his initial priorities in his new role. Senior Chairman and Partner Andrew Glincher is also quoted extensively on his proudest accomplishments during his tenure.Feb 1, 2021 - Reuters Legal
Nixon Peabody taps Boston partner Zubiago as new CEO
The following article features Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago’s appointment to the helm of the firm, highlighting his leadership of the Business & Finance Department over the past decade as well as some of his initial priorities in his new role. Senior Chairman and Partner Andrew Glincher is also quoted extensively on his proudest accomplishments during his tenure.Feb 1, 2021 - Law360
Nixon Peabody taps new CEO
The following article features Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago’s appointment to the helm of the firm, highlighting his leadership of the Business & Finance Department over the past decade as well as some of his initial priorities in his new role. Senior Chairman and Partner Andrew Glincher is also quoted extensively on his proudest accomplishments during his tenure.Feb 1, 2021 - Bloomberg Law
Nixon Peabody names Zubiago chief after decade with Glincher
The following article features Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago’s appointment to the helm of the firm, highlighting his leadership of the Business & Finance Department over the past decade as well as some of his initial priorities in his new role. Senior Chairman and Partner Andrew Glincher is also quoted extensively on his proudest accomplishments during his tenure.Feb 1, 2021 - Providence Business News
How RI employers can assist in combating opioid crisis
This article on how employers can help curb opioid-related deaths in Rhode Island was co-written by Business and Finance Department Chair Steve Zubiago, Providence health care partner Chris Browning and associate Mike Gorfinkle.April 13, 2018 - Providence Business News
Five Questions With…
Health Care partner and chair of the firms' Business & Finance department Steve Zubiago is featured in this profile. Steve addresses the changing health care landscape and working with clients to maximize their opportunities.Dec 22, 2015 - Providence Journal
Health Services Council OKs Transfer of R.I. Home Care Provider to CVS Health Corp.
Providence Health Care partner Steve Zubiago is quoted in this article on the Health Services Council's approval of the sale of infusion drug company Coram LLC, a unit of NP client Apria Healthcare, to CVS Health.Oct 28, 2014
Admitted to practice
Massachusetts
Rhode Island
Education
Marquette University, J.D.
Brown University, B.A.
Professional activities
- Board member, Roger Williams University
- Board member, Rhode Island Education Collective
- Member, The Quin, Boston, Massachusetts
Recognition
- Selected, through a peer-review survey, for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2025 in the fields of Administrative/Regulatory Law; Health Care Law; and Insurance Law
- Named Health Care Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Providence
- Listed in Best Lawyers since 2007
- Consistently ranked in Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business for Corporate/Commercial (Rhode Island) in 2024 and in previous years
- Also recognized in Chambers USA as an “Eminent Practitioner”
- Recognized as a “Rhode Island Super Lawyer” in Health Care and Administrative Law based on a peer-review survey by Thomson Reuters
Insights And Happenings
View AllProfessionals in the Practice Area
View AllJoseph J. Ortego
Partner / Diversity Partner / Chair, NP Trial / Leader, Aviation- New York
- Office:+1 212.940.3045
- jortego@nixonpeabody.com
-
Jeffrey S. Brenner
Partner / Practice Group Leader, Construction & Real Estate Litigation- Providence
- Office:+1 401.454.1042
- jbrenner@nixonpeabody.com
-