Bates Group Announces CEO Transition

Bates Group announces that Benjamin Pappas is pursuing a new opportunity and will move on from his role as Chief Executive Officer effective Friday, February 27, 2026.

Following this transition, Alex Russell and Rhonda Davis will serve as Co-Chief Executive Officers. This leadership transition reflects a thoughtful and deliberate step forward, and the firm’s strategy and priorities remain unchanged.

 Alex has responsibility for Bates Group’s Regulatory and Litigation matters and has played a key role in developing the firm’s data analytics and complex financial dispute capabilities, drawing on his 20 years of experience providing consulting services to financial firms. Rhonda has responsibility for the firm’s Compliance services, and brings more than 25 years of regulatory, legal, and compliance leadership experience advising broker-dealers, investment advisers, banks, and other financial firms.

Together, Alex and Rhonda represent the depth of expertise across our core service lines and share a strong commitment to our clients, staff, and our long-term strategy. They commented:

 “Ben’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping Bates Group’s strategic direction, expanding our expertise, and positioning the firm to meet the evolving needs of our clients. We would not be where we are today without his guidance. He has strengthened our culture, invested in us as leaders, and set a high standard that we are committed to carrying forward.”

Jennifer Stout, Vice Chair and Senior Executive Advisor, added:

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Ben for 10 years of thoughtful leadership and wish him the best in his next venture. It has been a personal pleasure to work with him over the years. Looking forward, we are thrilled to have Alex and Rhonda taking the helm, and we have full confidence in their abilities to continue executing on Bates’ strategic vision.”

We sincerely thank Ben for his dedication, steady leadership, and lasting contributions to the firm.

Reflecting on his time with the firm, Ben shared:

“I would like to thank Bates Group’s team, clients, and Board of Directors for the incredible experiences I’ve had over the last ten years. I am very excited about the future of Bates and know that the firm and its clients are in great hands under the leadership of Alex and Rhonda.”

Bates Group remains firmly committed to delivering trusted, high-quality expertise to our clients while continuing to grow thoughtfully and strategically. With a strong foundation in place and experienced leadership at the helm, the firm is well positioned to build on its momentum and continue broadening its impact across the financial services industry.