Barbara A. Stettner, MBA, JD, LLM, has earned recognition as a leading authority in financial services law, with expertise in securities regulation, trading markets, private equity and broker-dealer operations. As a partner at Sidley Austin LLP, she focuses on the transformation of trading markets into crypto and digital assets while advising on private wealth and private equity. Her work extends to firms engaged in securities trading, distribution and custody. This role also brought her back into collaboration with colleagues from her early service at the Securities and Exchange Commission, reinforcing long-standing professional relationships and deepening her influence in the field.
Ms. Stettner’s educational background laid the groundwork for her success in law and business. She earned a Master of Laws in international finance and law from The London School of Economics and Political Science, a Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration from Pepperdine Law, and a Master of Business Administration in international finance from the Graziado Business School at Pepperdine University. She also completed a Bachelor of Arts in political science at the University of California Davis.
The impact of Ms. Stettner’s career is reflected not only in her leadership roles but also in her recognition as a Band 1 Top-Rank Lawyer by Chambers Review in the area of financial services regulation. This recognition carries personal significance, as she overcame considerable challenges to pursue her career. Leaving school at a young age to work, she later earned her GED, excelled in community college and transferred to the University of California Davis. Inspired by the value of resilience and self-improvement, she committed herself to education.
Prior to joining Sidley Austin LLP, Ms. Stettner was a partner at Allen & Overy Shearman, where she helped establish and expand the Washington, District of Columbia office. As head of the office and leader of the financial services group, she oversaw its growth from a small team to more than one hundred employees. She also worked on the executive committee and later joined the board, guiding the firm through an important period of expansion and transition.
Ms. Stettner’s career includes prior partnerships with O’Melveny & Myers LLP, where she advanced from counsel to partner, and earlier roles with Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP. She began her professional journey at the Securities and Exchange Commission, working as senior counsel and developing foundational expertise in regulatory oversight, market structure and compliance.
Beyond her professional practice, Ms. Stettner has contributed to the development of global markets through involvement with the International Organization of Securities Commissions, including support for the creation of the Jordan Stock Exchange. She has also authored and presented widely on critical topics such as fintech innovation, anti-money laundering compliance, cross-border regulation and investment vehicles. Her published works include “The Intersection of Capital Raising and Trading Technology,” “Alternative Global Investment Vehicles and Derivatives Regulation,” and “Domestic and Cross-Border Sales of Private Fund Interests: Broker-Dealer Regulatory and Political Law Considerations.” She has also spoken at leading conferences such as SIFMA’s Annual Compliance & Legal Seminar and Anti-Money Laundering & Financial Crimes Conference.
Ms. Stettner’s civic and philanthropic efforts are equally meaningful. She founded Off The Track Thoroughbred Race Horses, a charity dedicated to rescuing and rehoming retired racehorses. She co-founded River’s Bend Farm/Blue Horse Properties, a trust that supports children from disadvantaged backgrounds, and she provides pro bono legal services through the Financial Services Volunteer Corp. Her work demonstrates a commitment to service that extends far beyond her legal career.
Ms. Stettner is also known for her mentorship, having guided junior partners and colleagues while fostering ethical conduct and professional growth within firms. She remains focused on client development at Sidley Austin LLP while empowering young lawyers to build the networks and relationships necessary for lasting success. Her personal life is also important to her, and she is a stepmother to three children.