Ice Miller is pleased to announce that Joshua Christie’s transition to the firm’s chief managing partner took effect January 1.

Christie succeeds Michael Millikan, who is returning to his full-time legal practice and will continue supporting the firm’s leadership as a consultative adviser. This transition is the result of the firm’s established election cycle. Christie brings fresh perspective and youthful energy to the role while ensuring continuity through ongoing mentorship and collaboration.

Joining Christie are two newly appointed deputy managing partners:

• Edward Braum – based in the firm’s Columbus, Ohio, office, Braum will lead the firm’s growth, expansion, innovation, lateral recruiting and market opportunities.
• Laurie Miller – based in the firm’s Chicago office, Miller will oversee operations and process improvement.

“I am deeply honored by the trust the partnership has placed in me,” said Christie. “As I step into this role, my focus will be on building on Ice Miller’s strong momentum by fostering innovation, strengthening client relationships and empowering our teams to deliver their very best. I am excited to work closely with our management team to identify new opportunities, navigate challenges with agility and position the firm for sustainable growth. Together we will continue the legacy of excellence established by my predecessors while shaping a bold, forward-looking vision for Ice Miller’s future.”

“Serving as chief managing partner for the past four years has been one of the great honors of my career, and I’m incredibly proud of all we’ve accomplished together,” said Millikan. “I’m confident that Josh, with his energy, vision and dedication, is the right leader to guide the firm at this pivotal moment. As I return to full-time practice representing private equity and mezzanine funds, as well as family-owned businesses and entrepreneurs in their exit strategies, I look forward to continuing to support him and the leadership team in an advisory role to ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition.”

This succession aligns closely with the firm’s ongoing investment in talent and growth, culminating in a strong 2026 elevation class that reflects rising client demand and the firm’s dedication to career advancement.

The following lawyers have been elevated to partner: 

• Nathan “Nate” Basalyga – based in firm’s New York office and is a member of the Bankruptcy & Restructuring practice group. 
• Dan Durocher – based in the firm’s Columbus office and is a member of the Business Group. 
• Molly Gwin – based in the firm’s Columbus office and is a member of the Real Estate, Environmental & Energy Law (REEL) practice group. 
• Tyler Hardcastle – based in the firm’s Chicago office and is a member of the Real Estate, Environmental & Energy Law (REEL) practice group.  
• Robert Keeler – based in firm’s New York office and is a member of the Intellectual Property practice group.
• James “Jim” Smolik – based in the firm’s Columbus office and is a member the Business Group.

About Ice Miller LLP

Ice Miller LLP is a full-service law firm dedicated to helping our clients stay ahead in a changing world. With more than 350 legal professionals across the nation, we advise clients on all aspects of the complex legal issues impacting businesses each day. We serve private equity and venture capital funds, large private and emerging growth companies, FORTUNE 500 corporations, municipal entities, family offices, and nonprofits. To learn more, visit us at icemiller.com.