Reed Smith ESG Co-Chair Named Pittsburgh Legal Leader
Jennifer Smokelin, a partner at Reed Smith, has garnered recognition as one of the '20 People to Know in Law' for 2023 by the Pittsburgh Business Times.
Within Reed Smith, she holds the position of partner in the esteemed Energy and Natural Resources Group, as well as co-chair of the firm's environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practice while simultaneously co-leading the implementation of its Global Sustainability Plan.
The '20 People to Know' series by the Pittsburgh Business Times is dedicated to fostering connections within the Pittsburgh business community and highlighting influential individuals in various industries. It serves as a platform to introduce readers to the often unsung heroes, prominent leaders, and emerging talents who play pivotal roles in the region's economic landscape.
Jennifer Smokelin is renowned for her expertise in U.S. and international environmental, energy transition, and climate change law. She was celebrated for her contributions to advising clients on pressing environmental and energy issues, including legislative measures concerning greenhouse gas emissions and carbon reduction strategies.
Smokelin said her journey in environmental law was inspired by the inaugural UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in 1992. This global milestone, signed by the United States and 153 other nations during the Rio Earth Summit—the same year Jennifer graduated from law school—ignited her passion for tackling the legal challenges associated with her generation. She described the experience as both humbling and a vital first step.
Jennifer also offered valuable advice to young lawyers at the outset of their careers, emphasising the importance of fostering a strong legal community for future generations.
Furthermore, Jennifer detailed her collaborative efforts with Reed Smith colleagues, Todd Maiden in San Francisco and Elle Todd in London, who serve as 'sustainability partners' dedicated to advancing the firm's sustainability initiatives.
Notably, she highlighted the firm's groundbreaking sustainability billable-hours policy, setting a precedent in the legal industry by allowing for up to 25 hours of billable time dedicated to sustainability-related leadership, advocacy, training, or development programs. Jennifer expressed her pride in this pioneering endeavour.
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Source: Reed Smith
