Leslie Hecht Helmer of Ogletree Deakins, former co-chair of WILEF Southern California, was named an Executive of the Year finalist by The Los Angeles Business Journal as part of its Women’s Council & Awards, which recognize the impact of area women leaders.

Helmer, who represents management in labor and employment disputes, was among just four finalists selected. Women’s Council & Awards honorees were celebrated at an event on June 20 at the JW Marriott LA Live, which featured a keynote presentation by City National Bank Chief Executive Kelly Coffey.

Previously, in May, Helmer was also named to Los Angeles Business Journal’s 500 Most Influential list for 2019. Only eight percent of those on the list are from the legal industry. Others named to the prestigious list include luminaries such as Robert Iger, Frank Gehry, and Los Angeles Lakers owner Jeanie Buss.

Helmer joined Ogletree Deakins from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner in March, which was covered by The Recorder and Law360.