Dentons announced that Partner and former Global Chairman Joe Andrew will retire at the end of March, marking the conclusion of a tenure that helped shape the firm into the world’s largest global law firm.
Andrew served as Dentons’ Founding Global Chairman from the firm’s inception until March 2023, playing a central role in defining its global strategy and expansion. Working alongside former Global CEO Elliott Portnoy, he led more than 50 law firm combinations and helped build Dentons’ extensive international footprint across more than 85 countries.
During his leadership, Andrew represented the firm with clients, governments, and strategic partners worldwide, while advancing initiatives focused on connecting talent, expanding geographic reach, and delivering cross-border legal services. His vision emphasized a globally integrated firm capable of serving clients wherever they operate.
Beyond his leadership roles, Andrew advised companies across a wide range of industries including technology, insurance, energy, life sciences, banking, and telecommunications. He also counseled foreign business leaders and government officials, and worked on corporate matters involving U.S. regulatory and policy institutions. Since joining Dentons in 2004, he has advised on numerous Fortune 500 mergers, particularly in the healthcare and insurance sectors.
Andrew’s contributions have been widely recognized. In June 2025, the Financial Times named him one of the 20 most innovative law firm leaders of the past 20 years, highlighting the long-term impact of his leadership.
Dentons leadership emphasized that Andrew’s legacy is deeply embedded in the firm’s global platform, positioning it for continued growth and innovation following his retirement.
KEY QUOTES
“I am deeply grateful to Joe for his contributions that have made Dentons what it is today. Because of his leadership, we are uniquely positioned in the market to support our clients anywhere in the world and on their most complex challenges.”
Kate Barton, Global Chief Executive Officer of Dentons
“Joe has played a key role in the Firm’s history, and I wish him well as he begins his retirement. His legacy can be seen across the Firm.”
Sonia Martin, Chief Executive Officer of Dentons US
“I am grateful for the opportunity to have played a role in building Dentons and working alongside so many talented colleagues around the world. The Firm’s success has always been driven by its talented people who live in and serve clients in more than 85 countries around the world, and I am confident that it will continue to cement its position as not only the largest but the most innovative law firm.”
Joe Andrew, Partner and Former Global Chairman of Dentons
