Peter R. Orszag, currently CEO of financial advisory at Lazard, was unanimously elected by its board to serve as CEO of Lazard and as a board director. Kenneth M. Jacobs, chairman and CEO of Lazard, will serve as executive chairman of the board and will continue to advise clients on strategic financial matters. These changes will take effect Oct. 1.
“Peter is the optimal choice as the next CEO of Lazard,” Richard D. Parsons, lead independent director of Lazard, said. “Over his career spanning both banking and government, Peter has proven to be a strategic, visionary and decisive leader with deep relationships across the industry and the ability to effectively lead Lazard through evolving global markets and complex geopolitical dynamics.”
“We are tremendously grateful for Ken’s leadership and contributions to Lazard as chairman and CEO, and we look forward to continuing to benefit from Ken’s deep client relationships in his role as executive chairman,” Parsons said. “He is one of the world’s premier bankers, and, for more than three decades, and throughout his tenure leading the firm, Ken has advised many of Lazard’s most important clients with a commitment to understanding their needs and delivering optimal results.”
“I am honored, humbled and excited to become the next CEO of Lazard,” Orszag said. “I want to thank our board of directors and Ken for entrusting me with this role. Put simply, it is a privilege to work with such exceptionally talented colleagues across the firm. I look forward to serving and supporting them, our clients, and our shareholders. Along with Evan Russo, our CEO of asset management, and the rest of our firm, we have a strong team to build on the firm’s successful foundation for the future.”
“It has been the highlight of my professional career to lead Lazard for the past 14 years and an honor to have worked with such a talented and dedicated global team during my tenure. I look forward to continuing to work alongside the board, Peter, Evan and the leadership team, as well as with Lazard colleagues on client business around the world,” Jacobs said. “Our 175-year legacy speaks to our best-in-class people and our commitment to excellence in all that we do. I believe strongly that Peter is the right choice as CEO for Lazard’s next chapter in its storied history.”
