Husch Blackwell Promotes Ryan Mitchem to General Counsel, David Dyroff to Retire

Posted August 10, 2026

Husch Blackwell Ryan Mitchem, a nearly 25-year veteran at the law firm, was promoted to General Counsel.

Mitchem was promoted from Deputy General Counsel to the new role he began on August 1, according to a release. He succeeded David Dyroff, who served as General Counsel for more than two decades. Mitchem has worked in the General Counsel office since 2015, working closely alongside Dyroff.

Mitchem joined the firm in 2002 as an associate in commercial litigation. He was named a partner at the firm in 2015 and has held several titles within the General Counsel office.

“Dave has built a model general counsel function grounded in sound judgment, ethical leadership, and genuine care for this firm and its people. I am committed to building on that legacy and to supporting our attorneys and clients with the same standard of excellence,” Mitchem said in the release.

Dyroff will continue at the firm under a General Counsel Emeritus role til his retirement in spring 2027. Upon his retirement, Dyroff will be bookending a more then 35 year career at Husch Blackwell. He first joined the firm in 1991 as a litigation associate and became a partner in 1999, when he joined the risk management committee.

David Dyroff will continue to practice at Husch Blackwell as General Counsel Emeritus, through his retirement in spring 2027. Photo credit: Husch Blackwell.

“Dave’s extraordinary contributions over his more than 35 years with Husch Blackwell have built a foundation of strength and integrity for the firm,” said Jamie Lawless, CEO of Husch Blackwell. “Ryan has been positioned to step into this role for years, and we have full confidence in his ability to lead with the same dedication and care.”

Husch Blackwell operates with over 1,000 lawyers across the U.S. in more than 20 offices. Its Kansas City office, with over 400 attorneys, is located at 4801 Main Street, Suite 1000.