Advent names legal chief to replace retiring Westra

Advent International announced that Amanda McGrady Morrison will serve as general counsel and chief legal officer, succeeding James Westra, who is retiring.

Morrison, who was also appointed as managing director, will assume her legal roles at the end of this year, coinciding with Westra’s departure. Westra has been the private equity firm’s legal chief, and a managing partner, since 2011.

Advent said its incoming general counsel comes from Ropes & Gray, where she headed its global private equity transactions group. Morrison’s professional background spans more than 20 years, the firm added, which has included advising PE firms and portfolio companies. She served on the law firm’s diversity committee and co-chaired its women’s forum.

The selection of Morrison is Advent’s second senior move this month, following its selection of Susan Gentile as chief financial officer and managing director. Gentile is also arriving due to a retirement; Advent said she’s replacing Eileen Sivolella, who has been in the role since 2009.

While Ropes & Gray is losing a top person on its private equity side, the practice has added a slew of hires within the past year, Private Funds CFO previously reported.