Reince Priebus, President & Chief Strategist, Michael Best

“Great leaders don’t set out to be leaders; they set out to make a difference.” This profound insight captures the essence of what truly distinguishes extraordinary leaders. They possess a magnetic persona that inspires and a visionary outlook that sees beyond immediate challenges to the broader horizon of possibilities. Such leaders not only navigate complexities with finesse but also inspire innovation, foster collaborative environments, and embody unwavering integrity in their pursuits. They continuously reshape industries and redefine success, leaving an indelible mark on the institutions they serve and the communities they impact. Among these luminaries stands Reince Priebus, whose dynamic and multifaceted leadership style has propelled him from grassroots politics in Wisconsin to the pinnacle of power in Washington, D.C., and now to an influential role at one of the nation’s most esteemed law firms, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP.

Born in 1972, Reince Priebus is a prominent American lawyer and politician who served as chairman of the Republican National Committee from 2011 to 2017 and as White House chief of staff during the first six months of Donald Trump’s presidency. Raised in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Reince’s early life was steeped in the values of hard work and dedication. His journey began with a solid academic foundation. He earned his Juris Doctor degree, cum laude, from the University Of Miami School Of Law, which paved the way for his initial foray into the legal world. He practiced as a corporate litigator at Michael Best’s Milwaukee office for many years before moving to the D.C. Reince’s knack for leadership soon drew him into the political arena. As the chairman of the Republican Party of Wisconsin, he orchestrated one of the most historic election cycles the state had ever seen. His strategic genius came to the fore as Wisconsin Republicans clinched major victories, including the election of Ron Johnson to the U.S. Senate and Scott Walker as Governor.

His success in Wisconsin was just the beginning. In 2011, Reince assumed the role of chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC). The RNC was in disarray, but Reince rolled up his sleeves and oversaw a dramatic turnaround, rescuing its finances, repairing operations, and rebuilding its ground game. By harnessing the power of new technologies and welcoming new voters, he built the infrastructure needed for landslide GOP victories. Reince’s efforts paid off, raising over one billion dollars and making him the winningest chairman of either political party in American history. His influence was recognized by Time Magazine, which named him one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2016 and 2017.

From the White House to Michael Best

Reince’s success at the RNC didn’t go unnoticed. Following the 2016 presidential election, he was appointed White House Chief of Staff. In this high-stakes role, he managed the White House staff and navigated the tumultuous waters of national politics with his characteristic blend of strategic insight and indomitable leadership. His tenure, though challenging, showcased his ability to steer complex operations and maintain a steady course amid political storms. After leaving the White House, Priebus returned to his legal roots, bringing his wealth of experience to Michael Best & Friedrich LLP. With more than 350 attorneys nationwide, the firm is a powerhouse in the legal world, offering a full spectrum of services from corporate litigation to regulatory consulting. As President and Chief Strategist, Reince has been instrumental in driving the firm’s vision and expanding its reach. “Michael Best is not just a law firm; it’s a partner in its client’s success,” asserts Reince. The firm’s ethos of understanding the whole organization, not just its legal matters, aligns perfectly with Reince’s holistic approach to leadership. This philosophy has earned Michael Best a loyal clientele ranging from small startups to global Fortune 500 companies. “Since our firm’s founding in 1848, we’ve continuously evolved to meet our clients’ changing needs and expectations. One thing remains the same: For generations, clients have relied on Michael Best for exceptional legal service and business acumen,” opines Reince.

A Firm Built on Values

At the heart of Michael Best’s ethos lie its core values: a relentless pursuit of excellence, steadfast integrity, and a deep-seated commitment to diversity, innovation, collaboration, and community service. These core values are more than just words—they are the guiding principles that drive the firm’s mission to deliver exceptional service and strategic partnerships. “At Michael Best, integrity isn’t just a word; it’s a guiding principle that ensures honesty and ethical behavior in every interaction,” adds Reince. The firm thrives on diversity, fostering an inclusive environment that enriches both the legal profession and the community at large. Their pursuit of excellence and innovation drives continuous learning and improvement, leading to groundbreaking solutions for clients’ needs. Collaboration is woven into the fabric of Michael Best’s culture, promoting open, respectful dialogue within the firm and with clients. They prioritize the well-being of their people and communities, advocating for work/life balance and giving back to those they serve.

Beyond legal expertise, Michael Best extends its reach through its consulting arms, Michael Best Strategies and Michael Best Consulting LLC, providing a holistic approach to business challenges. Michael Best Strategies offers business consulting, government relations, and public affairs expertise, while Michael Best Consulting LLC provides regulatory advice, marketing strategy, public relations, and HR solutions. This integrated approach ensures clients receive cohesive, big-picture solutions tailored to their unique needs. By combining this holistic approach with top-tier client service, Michael Best distinguishes itself among the elite, consistently ranked in the top 25 percent for client service by corporate counsel. “We devote ourselves to understanding your whole organization, not just your legal matters. Our mission is to act as a true partner — to help you strategize, rise above challenges, and seize opportunities,” affirms Reince.

Leaving an Enduring Legacy in Law and Public Service

Reince’s impact transcends the boardroom and courtroom. Before his current role, he has also contributed as a visiting Fellow at the Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School. Alongside his service as an officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve, he holds the prestigious role of Chairman of the 2024 Milwaukee Host Committee for the Republican National Convention. His journey from grassroots politics in Wisconsin to the pinnacle of power in Washington, D.C., and now to his influential role at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP reflects his dynamic and multifaceted leadership style. Drawing from his extensive political background, Reince understands the importance of building strong, cohesive teams and fostering an environment of open communication and mutual respect. His holistic approach ensures that every decision is made with a comprehensive understanding of the client’s needs and the broader business landscape. Reince’s ability to blend meticulous legal expertise with a strategic, big-picture perspective has made him a transformative leader at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, guiding the firm to new heights of success and client satisfaction. As he continues to shape his legacy in law and public service, Reince Priebus remains a pivotal figure in American political history, leaving an indelible mark on the institutions and ideals he has dedicated his life to serving.