Littler Appoints Two New Office Managing Shareholders

CHARLESTON, W.VA./MINNEAPOLIS/PITTSBURGH (January 8, 2024) – Littler, the world’s largest employment and labor law practice representing management, has appointed two new office managing shareholders (OMS). Shareholder and Littler OnDemand Program Director Stephanie D. Sarantopoulos will head the firm’s Minneapolis office, while Shareholder Emilie R. Hammerstein will lead its Charleston, West Virginia, and Pittsburgh offices. Sarantopoulos succeeds Susan K. Fitzke, and Hammerstein takes the reins from Ted Schroeder, both of whom will continue to focus on their active practices and other firm responsibilities.

"We thank Susan and Ted for their many years of service and countless contributions to the firm and look forward to having Stephanie and Emilie step into these important leadership roles," said Erin Webber, Littler’s managing director and president. "Their proven track records, dedication to excellence, and deep understanding of our clients' needs make them the perfect fit to lead our Minneapolis and Pittsburgh offices. We are confident that under their leadership, we will continue to deliver exceptional service and innovative solutions to our clients."

Hammerstein represents U.S. and global employers in litigation and provides counsel on high-stakes workplace issues. She has secured favorable outcomes in court and arbitration cases involving discrimination, harassment, retaliation, failure to accommodate, and wage and hour allegations. Hammerstein frequently advises on complex workplace challenges, with a focus on leaves of absence, disability accommodations and reductions in force. She is also active in her community, serving on the boards of the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera and One Day to Remember. Hammerstein holds a J.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law and a B.A. from Johns Hopkins University.

As the Littler onDemand Program Director, Sarantopoulos has overseen the platform's legal operations, client relations and team management. With extensive experience in employment litigation, training, and counseling, Sarantopoulos has defended employers in cases involving discrimination, harassment and retaliation under various federal and state laws and frequently advises on the full spectrum of employment law issues faced by employers. She is a frequent speaker on labor and employment matters and has been actively involved in Littler’s Women’s Leadership Initiative as a liaison. Sarantopoulos is also engaged with her community, serving on the board of the Orono Foundation for Education. She holds a J.D. from Boston University School of Law and a B.S., magna cum laude, from Providence College.

About Littler

With more than 1,800 labor and employment attorneys in offices around the world, Littler provides workplace solutions that are local, everywhere. Our diverse global team and proprietary technology foster a culture that celebrates original thinking, delivering groundbreaking innovation that prepares employers for what’s happening today, and what’s likely to happen tomorrow.