Gibson Dunn taps local attorney for managing partner. (Law).

KENNETH Doran has taken the helm as managing partner of Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP, L.A.'s second largest law firm by revenue, third largest in attorneys.

Doran, based in Los Angeles and co-head of the firm's transactions practice group, replaces New York-based Wesley Howell Jr., who

A member of the firm since 1980, Doran most recently served on both the management and executive committees. He will lead a century-old firm that posted 2001 revenues of $537 million and profits per partner of $1.1 million, up 14.5 percent and 13.4 percent, respectively, from 2000.

Beard held both positions until 1997, when Howell, who remains on the management committee, became managing partner.

Dean Kitchens, an L.A. litigation partner who was rumored to be a potential candidate for managing partner, will join the management committee, Doran said.

The 800-attorney firm, which has 11 offices worldwide, has consistently ranked among national leaders in revenues and profits. American Lawyer magazine's AM Law 100 ranked Gibson Dunn No. 22 nationwide in profits in 2001.

It had been anticipated that Gibson Dunn would elect an L.A. partner, though Doran said geography is not a factor in the firm's management. "I've always spent a fair amount of time in New York," he said. "I find geography less and less important. I don't think the fact that I'm in L.A. or in New York signals anything of import within the firm."

Staff reporter Amanda Bronstad can be reached at (323) 549-5225 ext. 225, or at abronstad@labusinessjournal.com.