Matt Kiel Featured by Los Angeles Business Journal – 'Keep pressing forward and doing your best'

Foley & Lardner LLP senior counsel Matt Kiel is featured by Los Angeles Business Journal for his career journey in the article, “Matt Kiel’s Steady Climb.” 

Already in the spotlight this year as a recipient of the Emerging Leader of the Year Award at LABJ‘s inaugural M&A Awards for his significant deal work, strategic acumen, and impact, Kiel talked to the publication about how disciplined growth and adaptability fuel the momentum that help set him apart.

“It’s a slow, long-term growth story that has played out for me,” Kiel shared, describing his “steady concerted effort to grow and become a stronger version of yourself.”

“You keep pressing forward and doing your best,” he continued. “It compounds over time.”

Though he began his legal career as a litigator, Kiel gravitated towards M&A work as he found appeal in its constructive nature and the opportunity it gives attorneys to act as business advisors.

“There’s something special about helping to engineer solutions on an M&A transaction that I didn’t experience in litigation,” he explained. “You’re really trying to find solutions for your client and help create new value.”

Kiel credited his career growth and development to Foley’s collaborative culture, highlighting the firm’s focus on giving rising attorneys the support they need to develop. “The community of Foley is one of camaraderie,” he said.

Beyond his deal work, Kiel spoke about how he stays active in the Los Angeles community through his work with nonprofit legal organization Public Counsel, Foley’s Los Angeles office engagement with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles, and more.

“There’s more growth [to come],” Kiel added on his outlook for the M&A market in the new year. “We’re seeing enthusiasm carrying through…we’re optimistic and excited.”