Neil Wasser: Leading with Empathy, Strategy, and Purpose

In this inaugural episode, Sean Hoar is joined by Neil Wasser, Chair of the firm’s Executive Committee. Neil shares his unique legacy as the grandson of firm founder Frank Constangy, recounting his early summer days working in the copy room to his eventual evolution into firm leadership. He discusses how Constangy’s 80-year foundation of respect, diversity, and meritocracy continues to shape its national presence in labor, employment, and cybersecurity law. Neil offers candid insights on balancing a demanding legal career with family life, the power of hybrid work, and his philosophy on leading with empathy. He also opens up about the strategic decision to integrate Sean’s cybersecurity team into the firm, meeting a critical market demand for chief legal officers nationwide. Finally, Neil shares his core principles on firm culture, team building, and why he believes Constangy’s best years are still ahead. About the Guest Neil Wasser is the Chair of the firm’s Executive Committee for and has served in the firm’s leadership at Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete for over 20 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Tulane University and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Georgia School of Law. Neil has spent over four decades at Constangy representing employers in labor and employment matters while steering the firm’s national growth, remote-work strategies, and commitment to workplace diversity. Key Moments •The 80-year history and legacy of founder Frank Constangy •Balancing a high-demand legal practice with family and the evolution of hybrid work •Core principles of firm leadership, empathy, and maintaining a culture of respect •Strategic firm expansion and integrating the national cybersecurity practice About the Host Sean Hoar is a partner in Constangy’s Portland office and chair of the national Constangy Cyber Team, bringing over 25 years of experience in data privacy and information security. A former veteran cyber attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice, Sean served as lead cyber attorney for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Oregon and worked alongside the FBI and Secret Service to prosecute complex high-tech cybercrime—earning two DOJ Director's Awards for his service. Recognized by Cybersecurity Docket as one of the premier data breach response lawyers in the country, Sean holds top industry credentials including CISSP, GISP, and CIPP/US. Today, he leads Constangy's national cyber practice, advising corporate executives and security teams on incident response, risk mitigation, and digital defense.