Spencer Fane attorney Julia Vander Weele was once again selected by Missouri Lawyers Media for the publication’s annual Top Managing Partners in Missouri honors. As the firm’s Kansas City Office Managing Partner, Julia has been recognized since 2023 for her critical work overseeing office operations and guiding the direction of attorneys within the firm’s headquarters, one of the largest offices among 30 national locations.
According to MLM, those recognized have the rare ability to maintain successful private practices while managing short- and long-term business needs within their offices. Honorees also provide a unique snapshot of the growing diversity within Missouri’s legal sector.
Julia has served as the Kansas City OMP since 2021, allowing the office’s former OMP and current Spencer Fane Chair Pat Whalen to concentrate on broader firm goals and growth initiatives.
In an individual profile highlighting Julia’s role, MLM recognized her strong influence in pursuing and maintaining cultural progress and officewide alignment, especially in regard to increased diversity and inclusion efforts.
At Spencer Fane, Julia not only serves as Kansas City OMP but also maintains a full-time legal practice that helps employers and other benefit plan sponsors attract and retain talent to help their businesses thrive. This work includes managing issues related to the tax code, successfully navigating labor laws pertaining to competitive tax-favored benefit packages that shield leadership from personal liability, and advising clients on employee benefit regulations such as health care reform and ERISA.
Read the full list of MLM’s 2025 Top Managing Partners in Missouri honorees here and Julia’s individual profile here. Please note, a subscription may be required.