Press Release

Fenwick Strengthens Boston Presence with Addition of Executive Compensation Partner Jim Hauser

Issued by Fenwick

June 11, 2025

Fenwick today announced the continued expansion of its Boston office with the addition of executive compensation and employee benefits partner Jim Hauser.

Hauser brings extensive experience advising technology and life sciences companies, investors, and executives on the full lifecycle of compensation planning. He has worked with clients at every stage of growth—from early-stage startups to mature public companies—helping them navigate key inflection points such as IPO readiness, M&A, and leadership transitions.

At Fenwick, he will partner with clients to develop tailored compensation and benefits programs that address the evolving needs of innovation-driven businesses. His work will include designing and negotiating executive and equity arrangements, advising on governance and compliance matters, and guiding clients through compensation issues during strategic transactions. He also brings deep knowledge of regulatory complexities, including Sections 280G and 409A, and offers additional insight into ERISA-related considerations that often arise in private equity and fund-related contexts.

“Jim’s arrival reflects our commitment to building a comprehensive corporate offering in Boston that aligns with the dynamic needs of our clients,” said Richard Dickson, Fenwick’s firmwide chair. “We’re focused on assembling a team that brings both depth and agility across disciplines, and Jim’s specialized experience in executive compensation and benefits is a key piece of that vision.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Jim to the firm,” said Alan Smith, chair of Fenwick’s corporate group. “His background advising technology and life sciences companies across all manner of executive compensation and benefits arrangements adds meaningful breadth and depth to our team and enhances the support we provide clients to recruit and reward their critical talent.”

Hauser is the latest addition to Fenwick’s Boston office, which launched earlier this year with a robust life sciences IP team, including intellectual property partners Drs. Matthew Pavao, Heidi Erlacher, and Chen Chen.

“Boston is home to some of the most innovative companies in tech and life sciences, and Fenwick is building a team that reflects that energy,” said Hauser. “I’m excited to contribute to that momentum and help clients design compensation programs that support their growth strategy and business objectives.”

About Fenwick

Fenwick is a leading law firm, purpose-built to guide visionary tech and life sciences companies and their investors through every stage of growth, from startups securing their first round of funding to leading publicly traded global enterprises. As one of Silicon Valley’s original legal practices, today we have over 600 lawyers, patent agents, engineers, and scientists serving clients all over the world. Named 2024 Practice Group of the Year for both Life Sciences and Technology by Law360, we are consistently ranked a Chambers first-tier firm for delivering the deep experience and technical skill that help innovators at the forefront of their industries shatter boundaries and redefine what’s possible. Visit www.fenwick.com to learn more.

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