LANCASTER, Pa., September 11, 2025 — James W. Saxton, after ten years, will step down as CEO at the end of the year and assume a role as Chairman during 2026 continuing to work on the firm’s numerous strategic initiatives. Thomas J. Kent Jr. will step into the CEO role beginning January 1, 2026.

The transition follows more than 18 months of thoughtful planning by the firm’s management to ensure stability, preserve Saxton & Stump’s culture, and position the firm for continued growth. Kent was elected as the new CEO with unanimous support from the management team and all the firm’s shareholders.

Kent, co-chair of the firm’s very successful and growing Franchising, Licensing and Distribution group has also served on the firm’s Finance, Operations, and Pension Committees. He brings decades of experience as a talented business lawyer and trusted advisor to clients. Kent has worked at some of the nation’s largest law firms.

In 2015, Saxton left the prominent firm Stevens & Lee with his long-time partner, Christopher A. Stump and several colleagues to establish Saxton & Stump. They launched the firm with a shared vision to attract like-minded lawyers and grow through innovation, collaboration, and a strong cultural foundation.

“Over the past several years, Tom and I have worked closely together, and I have tremendous trust in his ability to carry our momentum forward and position the firm for long-term success,” Saxton said. “I have no doubt Tom, together with our leadership team, will ensure the collaborative culture we have built continues to thrive as we expand into the future.”

Kent expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead the firm during a period of continued innovation and expansion. “This transition has been planned with great care to preserve the qualities that have made Saxton & Stump unique,” Kent said. “I’m honored to help lead us into this next era and excited to continue building a firm that delivers a refreshingly different experience for our clients and opportunities for our team.”

In just 10 years, Saxton & Stump has scaled 14 attorneys to more than 150 attorneys, 8 affiliate companies, and expanded to 10 offices with over 300 professionals. The firm is now well poised to continue this strategic growth in all aspects of its operation.

Saxton & Stump’s strategic growth outlook

With nearly 300 professionals, including over 150 attorneys, Saxton & Stump's innovative model continues to attract highly talented and experienced attorneys, driving the growth of the law firm and its affiliate companies nationwide.

Saxton & Stump provides solutions for complex legal issues and partners with clients to create a roadmap for their success. The firm is committed to empowering clients by delivering five-star service and results-focused advice.