Foley Expands Technology and Energy Capabilities with Addition of Two Digital Infrastructure Partners
Strategic Hires Strengthen the Firm’s Bench in Data Center Development, Technology Transactions, Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Infrastructure Across Key Growth Sectors
Foley & Lardner LLP announced today the addition of partners Daniel Farris and Joe McClendon to its Chicago office, further enhancing the firm’s Technology Transactions, Cybersecurity, and Privacy Practice and its Energy & Infrastructure and Innovative Technology Sectors. Joining from Norton Rose Fulbright, Farris and McClendon bring a global practice with deep experience in data center operations and development, cybersecurity and data privacy, and complex technology transactions.
These strategic hires continue Foley’s expansion of its national Intellectual Property Department and demonstrate the firm’s commitment to serving clients at the intersection of energy infrastructure and innovative technologies.
“Daniel and Joe bring a unique combination of legal insight and technical knowledge that will further strengthen our ability to deliver practical solutions in fast-evolving sectors,” said Daljit Doogal, Foley Chairman and CEO. “Their focus aligns perfectly with our strategic priorities to expand our capabilities in the Energy & Infrastructure and Innovative Technology sectors, while also enhancing our collaborative, cross-practice approach to meet the evolving needs of our clients. The addition of Daniel and Joe follows closely on the heels of the IP litigation team that joined us last week, reinforcing our ongoing commitment to building integrated teams that drive client success.”
Farris advises clients on a broad spectrum of technology, privacy, cybersecurity, and compliance matters, with a focus on complex data center and digital infrastructure transactions. Drawing on his background as a software engineer and network administrator, he structures, negotiates, and executes multi-jurisdictional deals involving the development, leasing, and operation of data centers, fiber networks, and related infrastructure. Farris also provides counsel on technology licensing and regulatory compliance, including U.S. and international standards such as HIPAA and GDPR. His work spans industries such as technology, health care, banking, telecommunications, and retail.
McClendon focuses on privacy, cybersecurity, and technology transactions, with an emphasis on developing compliance programs aligned with U.S. and international regulations, including GDPR and HIPAA. He also advises on information governance, disaster recovery planning, and intellectual property matters. With a decade of experience as an IT project manager in higher education and the software industry, McClendon applies his technical background to address legal and regulatory challenges in technology-driven initiatives.
“Daniel and Joe’s experience will be instrumental in advancing our support for clients in large-scale energy and infrastructure projects, particularly as data center needs continue to expand,” said Jeff Atkin, chair of Foley’s Energy & Infrastructure Sector. “Their experience and insights will significantly enhance our ability to add value to navigate complex, high-stakes projects. We are excited to welcome Dan and Joe and look forward to the impact they will make on our team and clients.”
“We’ve had the privilege of guiding clients through some of the most complex data center projects globally, and we are excited to bring that experience to Foley as demand in this space continues to grow,” said Farris. “The firm’s national reach, combined with its strength in energy, infrastructure, and technology, provides the ideal platform to serve clients in these rapidly evolving sectors. We look forward to collaborating with Foley’s talented team to drive impactful results.”
About Foley & Lardner LLP
Foley & Lardner LLP is a preeminent law firm that stands at the nexus of the Energy, Health Care and Life Sciences, Innovative Technology, and Manufacturing Sectors. We look beyond the law to focus on the constantly evolving demands facing our clients and act as trusted business advisors to deliver creative, practical, and effective solutions. Our 1,100 lawyers across 26 offices worldwide partner on the full range of engagements from corporate counsel to intellectual property work and litigation support, providing our clients with a one-team solution to all their needs. For nearly two centuries, Foley has maintained its commitment to the highest level of innovative legal services and to the stewardship of our people, firm, clients, and the communities we serve.
