Ellen Smiley

Ellen Smiley advises public companies on a spectrum of corporate matters, including corporate governance and compliance with the US federal securities laws and the requirements of the major US stock exchanges.

Ms. Smiley helps clients navigate the complex, often interrelated legal issues that arise from operating as a public company. She handles a range of corporate law matters on behalf of established and newly listed public companies, from Fortune 500 companies to emerging companies, spanning diverse industries and jurisdictions. She regularly advises clients on matters such as:

• Disclosure requirements and related considerations
• Director independence
• Trading restrictions
• Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and sustainability issues
• Proxy advisory firm voting recommendations
• Stockholder proposals
• Formal and informal US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) inquiries
• New developments and evolving best practices in public company reporting and governance matters

She leverages her ability to think outside the box to craft workable solutions within the parameters of a public company’s regulatory regime, balanced with the client’s specific circumstance. Ms. Smiley draws on extensive experience to holistically, yet specifically, identify pressure points that may not be readily apparent to the client. Her nimble approach in times of volatility helps her clients to help companies forecast and pre-empt potential issues.

A thought leader on topics essential for public companies, Ms. Smiley regularly presents to internal and external audiences. Within the firm, Ms. Smiley also develops knowledge management tools and resources for the Public Company Representation practice and clients and is consistently recognized for these contributions.