Roberta Downey, Jenny Speck, and Charyn Ullrick Named Finalists for Prestigious Industry Award

Vinson & Elkins Partners Roberta Downey and Jenny Speck and Chief Financial Officer Charyn Ullrick were named finalists for The American Lawyer/Corporate Counsel’s 2026 Women, Influence & Power in Law (WIPL) Awards.

On April 14, 2026, at the WIPL award ceremony in Chicago, Jenny Speck was announced as a winner in the Next Generation of Leaders (Law Firm) category.

The WIPL Awards honor women leaders and allies who have made a remarkable difference in the legal profession by demonstrating exceptional skill, dedication, and commitment to advancing equality.

Roberta Downey — Law Firm Thought Leadership Finalist
Head of the firm’s International Construction Group, Downey was named a finalist in the Law Firm Thought Leadership category, which recognizes women for serving as influential voices in their industries and communities to create meaningful change.

Downey is widely regarded for her work in international arbitration and cross‑border disputes, frequently contributing analysis that informs both clients and the broader legal community. Her thought leadership reflects decades of experience guiding multinational companies through complex, high‑value matters.

Jenny Speck — Next Generation of Leaders (Law Firm) Finalist
A partner in the firm’s Renewable Tax Group, Speck was named a finalist in the Next Generation of Leaders category, which recognizes women lawyers under the age of 40 who have made exceptional advancements in service delivery, public or societal interest, or otherwise worked to improve the profession or community around them.

Speck’s extensive understanding of renewable energy tax credits has positioned her at the forefront of some of the market’s most innovative transactions. Her sharp analytical instincts and collaborative leadership style have earned her strong recognition from clients and colleagues alike.

Charyn Ullrick — Innovative Leadership – Internal Innovation Finalist
Ullrick, the firm’s Chief Financial Officer, was named a finalist in the Innovative Leadership – Internal Innovation category, which recognizes women who challenge conventional thinking and bring forward innovative ideas that improve internal operations, enhance team performance, and strengthen firm culture.

Ullrick’s ability to unite departments, modernize core processes, and foster a culture of transparency and teamwork has transformed the way the firm operates. Her leadership has not only strengthened the firm’s financial performance but also elevated the daily experience of attorneys and business professionals across the firm.

To view the full list of finalists, click here.

About Vinson & Elkins
For more than a century, Vinson & Elkins has provided outstanding client service across important industries that drive the global economy. Built on a strong culture of collaboration across 14 offices worldwide, V&E lawyers are committed to excellence, offering clients decades of legal experience in handling transactions, investments, projects and disputes across the globe. Learn more by visiting www.velaw.com or connect with us on LinkedIn.

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