New York Life has announced the appointment of Michael McDonnell as the company’s General Counsel, effective immediately. Mr. McDonnell will have day-to-day oversight of the Office of the General Counsel which includes the insurance and agency, investments, corporate practice, and tax teams. He will report to Sheila Davidson, Executive Vice President and Chief Legal & Administrative Officer.
Since 2021, Mr. McDonnell has held the position of Senior Vice President, Deputy General Counsel & Chief Insurance Counsel, delivering legal guidance across New York Life’s Foundational and Strategic Insurance Businesses. In 2016, he became Vice President, Associate General Counsel. He joined New York Life in 2013 as Associate General Counsel for the Insurance & Agency group.
Previously, Mr. McDonnell was an Associate with Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, where he worked for 10 years. Prior to that he was a Paralegal with the New York County District Attorney’s Office. He earned a B.A. from Bowdoin College and a J.D. from the University of California, Berkeley.
“We congratulate Mike on this well-earned appointment,” said Ms. Davidson. “During his time with the company, he has become an indispensable counselor and has earned the confidence and respect of senior leadership across the business, the entire legal team, and his peers in the industry. New York Life will continue to benefit from his sound judgment, expertise, and commitment to serving the company.”