Employment attorney Allison N. Powers has joined Blank Rome LLP as a partner in its Chicago office, marking a significant addition to the firm’s growing labor and employment practice.
Powers, formerly chair of the employment group at Barack Ferrazzano Kirschbaum & Nagelberg LLP, brings nearly two decades of experience in employment litigation and strategic counsel. Her practice includes representing clients in discrimination, harassment, and wage and hour claims, as well as advising on internal investigations and executive matters.
Strategic growth in Chicago
The hire comes as Blank Rome continues to expand its footprint in Chicago. Powers joins a series of recent lateral partners, including litigators focused on life sciences and business disputes, said the firm.
“Allison’s extensive experience as an employment litigator and trial attorney, combined with her strategic counsel in high-profile matters, will greatly enhance our nationally recognized Labor & Employment group,” said Grant S. Palmer, Blank Rome’s chair and managing partner.
Powers is also part of the firm’s Luxury Brands practice, where she advises Fortune-ranked clients in fashion, retail, telecommunications, and banking. Her recent work has included leading class action defense strategies and conducting internal investigations involving executive-level misconduct.
Advisor on ethics and evolving workplace law
In 2022, Powers was appointed by the Illinois Governor to serve as commissioner of the Executive Ethics Commission, a role that informs her work on corporate internal investigations. She also counsels employers on executive separations, leave management, and regulatory compliance.
Blank Rome partner and practice co-chair Brooke T. Iley said Powers’ addition strengthens the firm’s ability to support clients navigating shifting employment law trends in 2025, including evolving federal protections and the use of technology in the workplace.
Commitment to pro bono and community work
Beyond her litigation and advisory work, Powers is active in pro bono service, supporting asylum seekers, veterans, and first-time homebuyers. She serves on the board of the Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and is involved with the Black Women Lawyers Association of Greater Chicago.
“Blank Rome’s national platform and collaborative culture made it the right place to expand my practice,” Powers said. “As my clients’ needs have become more complex, I knew it was time to join a broader team that could support them across industries and jurisdictions.”
Powers holds a law degree from Washington University School of Law and a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University.
