DRI, The Voice of the Defense Bar, appoints Sean Dolan as the association’s new executive vice president of operations and general counsel, and Wendy Merrill as executive vice president of growth strategy and branding. This follows the appointment of Dean Martinez as CEO earlier in the year.
“As we explore all the ways in which DRI can support our members, particularly during this challenging time, I’m excited to add Sean and Wendy to the team,” said Martinez. “Both are talented professionals with the experience, energy and insights we need right now as we look to the future.”
Dolan comes to DRI after three years as director of business operations and deputy general counsel with the Association for Supply Chain Management. In that role, he led a number of large interdepartmental initiatives and oversaw the organization’s business operations. Dolan, who is a Certified Association Executive credentialed by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), will be responsible for several departments at DRI, including IT, human resources, accounting, customer service and the legal department.
“This is a compelling time to be joining DRI with the challenges that confront the legal industry, and our members in particular,” said Dolan. “I firmly believe that industry associations play a key role in the success of the sectors they serve, and look forward to working closely with my new colleagues at DRI to provide leadership and support.”
Merrill has worked closely with DRI as both an outside marketing consultant and presenter. Before joining the association, she operated a successful consulting practice that focused on providing rising leaders in the legal profession with the skills necessary to lead the firms of the future. Merrill will direct DRI’s marketing efforts to ensure both members and the wider legal community understand the important work of the association.
“We’ve said for a long time that DRI is one of the best-kept secrets of the legal profession,” said Merrill. “We offer so much to our members, including crucial support and information for addressing the challenges they face every day. I am excited for this new role and the opportunity to elevate DRI’s visibility and influence.”
