Investment management partner Daniel Bresler has been elected chair of the Seward & Kissel’s management committee, effective Feb. 1, 2026. Bresler will succeed James Cofer in the role.
As a partner in the investment management group, Bresler represents a diverse range of clients, from emerging managers to established global firms, including fund sponsors, asset managers, institutional investors and wealth managers.
“It’s an honor to be elected by my fellow partners to lead our firm,” Bresler said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be the next steward of our 135-year-old firm. I look forward to giving back to the firm that has given so much to me over my career. As we look ahead, I am committed to fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation as we continue the firm’s long tradition of excellence in client service. I want to thank Jim Cofer, our current chair, for his years of dedicated service and continued guidance as I step into this role.”
Over his 10 years as chair, Cofer led the firm through substantial growth in its core service areas; the introduction of innovative practices, including the digital assets and private credit groups; the build-out of the firm’s C-suite; and an increase in lateral talent hiring, including most recently employment partner Lindsay Ditlow, maritime and transportation partner Susanne Burstein, litigation partner Randall Adams, venture capital partner Jacob Comer, trusts and estates partner Edward Vergara, finance partner Caroline Lee, investment management partner Peter Shea, capital markets partner Walter Van Dorn, and global banking and corporate trust partner Ronald Hewitt. His tenure also saw a significant number of internal promotions across key practice areas, reflecting a commitment to developing and advancing talent within the firm.
“It has been an honor to serve as chair of Seward & Kissel’s management committee, and I’m incredibly proud of the strengthened client relationships, expanded capabilities and deepened culture of excellence we achieved together,” Cofer, who will continue to practice and serve as chair of the firm’s Tax, ERISA and trusts and estates practice, said. “Dan is a thoughtful leader who exemplifies our firm’s values. His judgment, integrity, commitment to client service, innovation and mentorship make him exceptionally well-suited to guide the firm forward. I could not be more excited for the firm’s future and I have every confidence that under Dan’s leadership, Seward & Kissel will continue to thrive and evolve in ways that honor our legacy while embracing the future.”
Clients and colleagues who have worked closely with Bresler expressed strong support for his appointment, citing his strategic insight and commitment to excellence.
“We’ve worked with Dan for years and have always appreciated his clarity and strategic insight,” Robert Burch, managing partner of A.W. Jones, the industry’s original hedge fund and long-time firm client, said. “He brings a rare combination of technical expertise and business acumen to every engagement. Seward & Kissel will undoubtedly benefit from his vision and steady hand as he steps into this leadership role.”
At 41 years old, Bresler is the second-youngest attorney to be elected to chair of the management committee — after Cofer.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside Dan and observing his deep commitment to the success of his clients and the Firm,” Kevin Neubauer, co-head of Seward & Kissel’s investment management group, said. “His unwavering dedication to excellence — both in his work and care for the firm and its people — consistently sets him apart. As a colleague and friend, I’m excited to watch his leadership shape the future of our organization.”
