Glenn Gerstell was sworn in on Monday as the general counsel of the National Security Agency (NSA) in a ceremony at the agency's Fort Meade headquarters. Mr Gerstell is a leading legal expert in technology and cybersecurity matters. He practiced for nearly 40 years at the international law firm of Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP, where he served for 18 years as the managing partner of Milbank's Washington, DC office. He previously led the firm's Singapore and Hong Kong offices. 'Glenn is a gifted lawyer,' said Michael S. Rogers, director, NSA/chief, Central Security Service. 'His extensive background in managing a global law firm and the breadth of his international experience will provide a fresh perspective that will serve to benefit our mission.' Mr Gerstell said he was extremely grateful for the opportunity. 'Given my lifelong interest in homeland security and international matters, it is an honour to be able to assist the NSA in a mission that is now more vital than ever.'

Unwired Planet has appointed Noah Mesel as its general counsel, corporate secretary and executive vice president of legal and government affairs. Mr Mesel joins Unwired Planet from ASSIA Inc., where he oversaw all the legal affairs of the company, including advising management and the board on intellectual property protection, commercial and strategic licensing transactions, corporate governance and international business.

Wunderlich Securities announced that James Ritt has been named its chief compliance officer and general counsel. Wunderlich Securities is a leading full-service investment firm headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. Mr Ritt’s 30-year securities industry career has included various legal and compliance leadership roles with several regional investment firms. He served as general counsel and chief legal officer for Birmingham-based Sterne Agee Group from 2012 to 2014. Gary Wunderlich, CEO of Wunderlich Securities, commented:  'With his extensive experience and knowledge of our industry’s regulatory environment, Jim will provide invaluable insight to our executive management team, We are very pleased to welcome him to the firm and look forward to his leadership as Wunderlich continues to grow our advisor base and capital markets businesses.'

Barnes Group, Inc. announced the appointment of James Berklas to the position of senior vice president, general counsel and secretary, effective immediately. 'As a diversified, global company, having an experienced and trusted legal team is critical to our business and supporting the successful execution of our strategy,' said Patrick J. Dempsey, president and chief executive officer. 'Jim is a proven business-focused leader and I am confident that his legal skills, strong business acumen and breadth of legal expertise will complement our senior leadership team.'