Harrisburg law firm names COO to strengthen operations, support strategic growth

Harrisburg-based Mette law firm announced the addition of Keith Verner as Chief Operating Officer.

The newly expanded leadership role is designed to strengthen the firm’s operational foundation while supporting its long-term strategic vision, according to a release.

“Mette’s reputation attracted me long before this opportunity did,” Verner said in a statement. “It’s a firm that has grown by remaining true to who it is. The culture is genuine. People care deeply about one another, they care about their clients, and they approach growth thoughtfully rather than simply pursuing size. My role is to help create an environment where exceptional attorneys have every opportunity to build exceptional careers by continually improving the experience for both clients and employees. When those things happen well, everyone benefits.”

Verner joins Mette following more than two decades of executive leadership experience. As Chief Operating Officer, he will oversee the firm’s business operations, partnering closely with leadership to ensure the firm’s operations evolve alongside its legal excellence.

“Our clients deserve exceptional legal counsel,” said Mette President Benjamin A. Ried. “Delivering that consistently requires more than outstanding attorneys. It requires an organization that genuinely supports the people practicing law every day.

“Keith understands that operations are not separate from client service, they are foundational to it. His leadership will help us continue investing in our attorneys, our professional staff, and the systems that allow everyone at Mette to focus on serving clients exceptionally well.”

Following the successful combination with SkarlatosZonarich in 2024, and recent addition of Cognetti Law Group, Mette has continued to invest in leadership, technology, and organizational development.

“We want Mette to be a place where talented attorneys choose to build meaningful careers,” Ried said. “That means creating an environment where people feel supported, challenged, respected, and empowered to do their best work. We believe authenticity matters. We believe relationships matter. We believe our clients are best served when our attorneys are supported by outstanding people, thoughtful leadership, and modern operational capabilities. Our investment in leadership reflects those beliefs. We are building not simply for today, but for the next generation of Mette.”

A full-service law firm located in Dauphin County, Mette represents businesses, governmental entities, nonprofit organizations, and individuals throughout Pennsylvania.