Chuhak & Tecson, P.C., is pleased to announce that Principal Eileen Sethna will lead the firm’s 28-attorney banking practice group beginning June 1. She replaces Josh Hyman, a principal who started the banking group in 2002 and who will continue with the firm.

Sethna came to Chuhak & Tecson five years ago, having already distinguished herself with a successful career as a bankruptcy attorney and a seasoned trial lawyer. She also serves as a Special Assistant Attorney General for the State of Illinois, appointed by Attorney General Lisa Madigan.

“I am grateful for this new opportunity and challenge,” Sethna said. “The men and women in this practice group are people I enjoy working with every day; it is an honor to be asked to lead this dynamic group of professionals.”

No stranger to leadership, Sethna once managed human resources for an 800-employee hotel, prior to law school.

An educator at heart, she has been highly committed to training and mentoring Chuhak & Tecson’s young lawyers and intends to continue nurturing the systems in place to help and coach attorneys.

She initiated a round table program at the firm a few years ago to bring professional staff together in a relaxed, collegial environment to exchange information and ideas. Sethna hopes to carry on that commitment as practice group leader with new monthly and quarterly events.

Stepping down after 14 years, Hyman said it’s time for a change. He will continue serving clients and, as a principal at Chuhak & Tecson, moves into an advisory role.

“Change will mean a fresh set of eyes and ears to manage the continuing growth of this practice group,” he said. “Having worked closely with Eileen for five years, I believe she is extremely well-suited to take Chuhak & Tecson’s banking group to the next level.

“I’ve seen firsthand how well she interacts with all different kinds of people and personalities and successfully takes the lead on complicated matters,” Hyman said. “Eileen is the type of professional you can go to with almost any situation, and she will figure out a way to draw the best result.”

When Hyman became Chuhak & Tecson’s first banking attorney in 2002, there were only a few clients to represent. The banking group now boasts a client list of nearly 100 banks and financial institutions.

“I have nothing but pride about what we have accomplished and am incredibly optimistic about where Eileen will take the group in the future,” he said.