Nationwide employment law firm Jackson Lewis P.C. announced Melissa B. Kurtzman has joined the firm’s Philadelphia office as a principal. Melissa joins the firm from Littler Mendelson P.C. and brings more than 30 years of experience representing employers in a range of employee benefits matters.
“Melissa brings sophisticated counsel and a practical understanding of the day-to-day administration and compliance challenges employers face in managing their benefit plans, and will be an excellent addition to our team as we continue to expand the depth and reach of our practice,” said Melissa Ostrower and Kellie M. Thomas, co-leaders of the firm’s Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation group. “Her experience further strengthens our ability to counsel clients across the full spectrum of employee benefits matters, particularly when complex benefits issues intersect with transactions, regulatory compliance and litigation.”
Melissa advises employers on the design, implementation and administration of qualified and nonqualified retirement plans, welfare and fringe benefit programs, employee benefits tax matters and benefits issues arising in mergers and acquisitions. She also counsels clients on fiduciary responsibilities, reporting and disclosure obligations, government correction programs and contingent workforce issues.
Melissa represents plan sponsors in IRS and DOL audits and assists with employee benefit plan self-audits and government examinations. She advises clients across a range of industries including retail, accounting, construction, transportation, healthcare, manufacturing, financial services and nonprofit organizations. Prior to private practice, Melissa served as director of ERISA compliance for a national retirement plan administration company, where she oversaw the preparation and administration of qualified retirement plans.
“We are thrilled to welcome Melissa to the office,” said Stephanie J. Peet, office managing principal in Philadelphia. “Melissa’s arrival expands the capabilities we offer clients in Philadelphia and throughout the region, providing greater access to sophisticated employee benefits counsel while further strengthening the resources of our national team.”
Melissa earned her J.D. from the University of Toledo College of Law and her B.A. from Michigan State University.
Source: www.jacksonlewis.com
