CalPERS Names Matthew G. Jacobs as New General Counsel

“Matt is an accomplished attorney who will bring great leadership skills to CalPERS and our Legal Office,” said Anne Stausboll, CalPERS Chief Executive Officer. “His depth of experience in both the public and private sectors will be strong assets as he provides guidance on complex legal issues on pension, health care, investment and corporate governance issues.”

Jacobs comes to CalPERS from DLA Piper, where he is a partner in its litigation practice. Prior to DLA Piper, he served in private and public sector law practices, including positions with the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Sacramento and a large law firm in San Francisco. He has repeatedly been acknowledged as a California Super Lawyer and The National Law Journal recognized his $30 million jury verdict as one of the top 100 verdicts in 2011.

As General Counsel, Jacobs will be responsible for the strategic direction and oversight of the CalPERS Legal Office and Office of Audit Services. He will provide legal advice and counsel to CalPERS, including the CalPERS Board of Administration and its committees, the Chief Executive Officer and other executive and senior management staff.

“I’m excited to be joining CalPERS at a time when pension and health benefit policies and corporate governance are the focus of so much attention in our state and across the nation,” said Jacobs. “Returning to the public sector, where I started my career, will provide me a unique opportunity to serve those who serve California every day.”

Jacobs earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and Juris Doctor degree from the University of Michigan Law School. He is a member of the State Bar of California. Jacobs will report to the Chief Executive Officer and start within a few weeks.