Schwabe, a leading Pacific Northwest law firm with offices across the region, today announced the appointment of Tom Tongue as the firm’s Chief Executive Officer. He succeeds Graciela Gomez Cowger, Schwabe’s outgoing CEO. Tongue’s appointment, along with the completion of the firm’s newly remodeled downtown Portland office, reflects Schwabe’s continued investment in the Pacific Northwest.

As a fifth-generation Oregon attorney, Tongue brings over 26 years of experience serving as corporate counsel to Schwabe’s prominent clients. He previously served nine years on the firm’s board of directors and five years as chair of the firm’s Business Practice Group.

“I began my career at Schwabe and am honored to lead this next chapter to serve our clients, my colleagues, and our communities,” said Tongue. “From solving unique business challenges to navigating the complex economic environment we are experiencing, I look forward to collaborating with our talented team to deliver solutions that support the long-term success of both our clients and our region.”

Tongue holds a Master’s in Business Administration. During his career, Chambers USA, Super Lawyers, and The Best Lawyers in America have recognized his expertise in corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, and insurance regulation. Outside of the firm, he serves on the Board of Directors of California Casualty Insurance Group.

“As we welcome Tom as CEO, his business acumen, deep legal experience, and collaborative approach will be instrumental in guiding the firm into our next chapter of growth and service to our clients,” said Graciela Gomez Cowger, outgoing CEO. “I am grateful for the opportunity to have served as the firm’s CEO and proud of what we have accomplished together. Tom will build on this foundation with integrity and a steadfast commitment to our people and the communities we serve in Oregon, Washington, Alaska, California, and beyond.”

Schwabe also recently completed a multi-floor office renovation at PACWEST in the heart of downtown Portland. The renovation reimagines Schwabe’s headquarters with modern design features, open collaboration zones, private wellness areas, client-focused amenities, and panoramic views of the city and Willamette River. The design emphasizes sustainability by incorporating natural light, reusable materials, and efficient systems. The design was led by Ankrom Moisan and constructed by Lease Crutcher Lewis, in partnership with building owner Lincoln Property Company. As part of the firm’s investment in a culture of collaboration, they updated the traditional floor plan to bring attorneys together across service areas and industries, allowing them to share ideas.

In addition to a longstanding downtown presence, Schwabe maintains its connection to the business community through their unique operating model. From a CEO leadership structure to dedicated industry practice areas, clients can access specialized legal services and deep regional expertise.

Schwabe has a 134-year history and is proud to be a business that grew out of the values of the Pacific Northwest. It is one of the largest law firms in the region with a strong presence in seven offices across Oregon, Washington, Alaska, and California. Schwabe is committed to a strong culture of mentorship, inclusion, community impact, and career growth.