Origin Story

Not a Superhero Story


Just an ex-lawyer
with some crazy ideas


On his second day as a legal recruiter, Whistler's founder, Sean Burke,
cold-called a startup attorney to pitch him on a job at a bank, but the man 
on the other end had already found his dream job.

"I hated my BigLaw M&A job," the attorney told him.


"Now I have 30 clients of my own, act as an outside GC on everything from IP, employment, and lease negotiations, to selling the company for millions to Google. I make NY market. And, I wear jeans to work."

Sean, whose own quest for professional fulfillment had taken him from a SF lit boutique,
to a boom-era West Coast startup, to a New York City recruiting firm, reacted


"Why didn't someone tell me this job existed when
I was in law school?!"

Whistler's mission is to make sure you never have to ask that question.

What We do

Stay Ahead of
the Curve

We’re building the law
practices of the future

as the leaders in tech convergence
placements.

Describing tech convergence is like describing jazz--obnoxious--but, like jazz, jazz
tech convergence centers on building structure in the moment, flexibility,
and intuition. The legal industry hasn’t always been prepared for the ways
technology has integrated into every facet of our lives, but Whistler has.
That’s why top firms come to us for attorneys that are ahead of the curve
and prepared to steer their clients into the future.

We are True hmm
Believers

We believe that dream jobs can pay market. That happiness and
financial reward are not mutually exclusive.

White-shoe firms represent only a fraction of the
opportunities at the highest level of the legal industry.

Maybe you want to change the world by helping startups.
Maybe you want to own the world by helping funds.
We're not here to judge. We're here to turn you into
a believer.

We Are Tipping Point Artists artist

Other recruiters talk a big game.
Ours is simple.

You already know any job worth having is going to attract talent.
Whistler evaluates the competition to make you five to ten percent better.
Whatever your superpower, Whistler will help you discover it, sharpen it
and bring it to the table.

That's the difference you need to stand out from
the pack.

Our comprehensive knowledge of our core industries - Entertainment,
Tech/IP, startups and Fintech/Regulatory - is going to put you over the edge.

We Are
Matchmakers

True professional love
requires personalization.

We're going to take the time to get to know you so that we can find you a worthy match.
Which offer maximizes your potential to spend all day, every day, representing clients you love?
Which provides the best balance of hours, interesting work, and exit opportunities?
Which will put you exactly where you want want to be five years from now?

A headhunter wants you to take the job.
We want you to take the right job.

Practice Areas

Emerging Companies &
Venture Capital

Risking failure is the
first step to success.

Where sophisticated IP law meets business advisor meets psychiatrist.

Startups fail, a lot, but you don’t have to. There’s a place where your
business sense is valued and compensated. A risk for the risk-averse.

Startup clients need business advice as much as legal advice.
Top startup law firms are looking for someone that can do both
(the perfect “Outside General Counsel”). The best part? If one
of those startups goes belly up, you won’t. What’s more, you get
to know the startup landscape so when that GC job becomes available,
you’ll know it’s worth your time.

Partners at top law firms call us when they need a GC for one of their startups.
Even top GCs call us when they want a new startup job. Other recruiting shops
aren’t even in the running.

We can’t name names but let’s
just say the last four hires at
[insert startup law firm X] were ours

FinTech & Regulatory

Invent the job as you go.

Welcome to a highly regulated space with ever-changing rules.
You’ve got this excitement for what’s next and you’re great at talking to regulators,
but you’re done defending Pharma bros. Why not use those same skills to help
an entrepreneur navigate the regulatory landscape or pick the right revenue model
for their great idea?
Imagine being in the room the first time someone suggested putting ads in a search
engine or creating an app to rent your spare room. Attorneys in this space possess
a unique combination of caution and initiative.
If you’re passionate about your practice, partner with us and we can help direct
that passion. Whether it’s privacy, blockchain or AI, we have placed more attorneys
in this space than anyone.

Rules are meant to be rewritten.

IP & Life Sciences Transactions

Be the expert you already are.

Your Knowledge Matters
You grew up building robots in your basement, got a degree in physics,
and spent every holiday serving as your family’s personal IT help desk.
We want you to be a great lawyer and also utilize your skill set.
Chances are, your unique expertise has been underutilized.
We’ll take your past life and put it to work for you.
What’s more useful to a Pharma client? Someone who is great at checking
footnotes or someone who wrote their thesis on the Patentability of Human-
Animal Chimeras? These clients need someone with real world experience.

They need you.

View our IP & Life Sciences Transactions Jobs

Media & Entertainment

They don’t make ‘em like they used to.

No industry epitomizes the concept of tech convergence better than media.
Streaming services and tech companies have all but merged.
If you have hands-on experience representing entertainment clients
or expertise in a relevant practice area, tell your people to call our people.
Lawyers in this area are shaping the way we experience entertainment and
you can leverage your legal experience to get a job that is not only dynamic
and exciting, but also pays.

Bring us what you’ve got and we’ll
handle the rest.

Some people
really like us:

Working with Taylor was an exceptional experience. His deep understanding of ECVC, the NY legal market, and the unique dynamics of top firms gave me insights I couldn’t have gotten anywhere else. Taylor isn’t just a recruiter—he’s a true matchmaker who goes above and beyond to connect people with the right opportunities. He provided an insider’s perspective on the people, culture, and growth trajectories at various firms, helping me make a confident, informed decision. He took the time to truly understand my goals, priorities, and aspirations, approaching every step of the process with care and precision. His thoughtful, deliberate approach made what could have been a stressful transition feel seamless and supported. I wholeheartedly recommend Taylor to anyone considering a career move or simply seeking a trusted expert in the legal recruiting space.



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EC/VC Associate at Goodwin

Nadeen has been a source of support and guidance throughout my career. When it came time for my next job search, I called her first. Nadeen exceeded all expectations and delivered outstanding service and results. She took the time to understand my goals and priorities for this search, provided thoughtful insights at every step, and always kept the focus on my long-term vision. She skillfully navigated the legal industry’s nuances and provided tailored guidance, ultimately connecting me with opportunities that perfectly matched my criteria. Nadeen’s unwavering support and strategic advice made the entire process feel manageable and seamless. If you are exploring new legal career possibilities or seeking someone who genuinely invests in your success, Nadeen is at the top of the list—I will recommend her every time.

 

eric minest

Eric Menist

IP Litigation Associate at Gibson Dunn

Working with Virginia made me enjoy changing jobs (despite some tough logistics) and she was incredibly helpful throughout the entire process. Making a career move can be a stressful experience under any circumstances, but it is even more difficult when the physical move involves switching coasts! Virginia not only helped me present myself as a candidate in the most favorable light, she also helped me understand the firm, get a sense of what living in Los Angeles would be like, what the interviewers were seeking, and whether the opportunity fit my professional goals (spoiler alert: it has absolutely been a great fit).

With Virginia and Whistler Partners, it was clear that they understood what made my profile and resumé unique, and why I was a good fit for the position they ultimately helped place me in. Rather than pitching me multiple opportunities and focusing on getting me to make a switch, Virginia came to me with a role specifically suited to my experiences while helping me explore and identify other similar jobs. Whistler's knowledge of me as a candidate and why I was a good fit led to a successful hiring and I couldn't be happier that Virginia reached out.

On the one hand, my experience was so good that I wouldn't hesitate to work with them again. On the other hand, they did such a good job placing me that I don't think I'll ever entertain another job search again! Although, if I need to use a recruiting firm to help me hire someone in the future, I know exactly who I will be calling first.

 

MATTHEW BERNSTEIN rounded_bw_new_image_no_borders

Corp Attorney  at Loeb & Loeb

My experience working with Nadeen was fantastic. Nadeen truly listened to my interests and goals, and worked with me quickly and meticulously to help me find a role that checked all my boxes. Nadeen is meticulous and communicative, and provides great wisdom, reassurance, and perspective on the legal industry throughout the lateral process. She is also diligent, following up to ensure I am satisfied with my placement. I am very pleased with both the process and end result and would highly recommend Nadeen to anyone looking to make a career move.

 

gertrude stein 15

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L&E Associate at xxxxxxxxxx

If you don’t know Edris Taufiq yet, prepare for your life to be upgraded.

Let me tell you about the unicorn that is Edris Taufiq; a force of nature, a relationship wizard, and quite possibly the most genuinely magnetic person I’ve ever met. For over 20 years, he’s been my confidant, my sounding board, and the person who can walk into any room and instantly make it brighter. Don't take my word for it, just wait until you speak to him directly.

Edris is the type of human being you could drop into a foreign country with no connections and no map, and within a week, he’d know half the locals and their life stories. By the end of the month, he’d be honorary mayor of the town, with relationships that feel decades old. 

His ability to connect with people isn’t just remarkable—it’s an art form.

Working with Edris isn’t just effective; it’s an experience. He approaches every challenge with fearless tenacity, unmatched precision, and a level of joy that makes you wonder if he’s operating on a higher frequency. 

You need something done? Edris will dive in, learn it inside and out, and execute like he’s been doing it for years. And somehow, he makes it look effortless.

Now at Whistler Partners—a premier matchmaker for the best and brightest tech attorneys—Edris Taufiq is bringing his entrepreneurial spirit, unmatched communication skills, and that signature ability to energize any room to the world of legal recruiting. 

If you’re lucky enough to work with him, know this: he’s not just going to meet your expectations—he’s going to redefine them.

Edris is the real deal. Truly one of the highest-quality people I’ve ever had the privilege and honor to have in my life, I don't say that lightly, and I can’t wait to see the magic he’ll create at Whistler Partners.

 

Anoush-1

Anoush Moin

Senior Account Executive at Kainos

I've had the privilege of working with Whistler and Kathleen Mon from both sides of the table. During my tenure as Chief of Staff to the General Counsel at Gopuff Kathleen helped me find dynamic tech and regulatory lawyers that were great additions to our team. Kathleen listened (rare in a recruiter these days), helped us build on-point candidate profiles, and then brought amazing candidates to the table. Most importantly, she understood that finding the right culture fit was equally, if not more, important than finding a candidate with the right set of skills. It made the search process easy and effective.
Most recently, I worked with Kathleen as a candidate. In a world of mega recruiting agencies, working with Kathleen on the candidate side was a breath of fresh air. She communicated honestly, was super responsive, and gave me great feedback and advice during the entire process - from resume prep through the interview stages. Kathleen landed me a role I am absolutely thrilled about and it would not have been possible without her. I can't thank her enough and I highly recommend Kathleen to anyone looking to take that next step in their career!

 

NAT FLANDREAU Nat Flandreau

VP of Legal at Hubble Contacts

Sean called me his first day on the job nearly 20 years ago. He moved me from litigation in a failing patent boutique to IP/Corporate at a top five PPP firm. It was exactly what I asked for and completely the wrong move for me.
Then, he helped me move, without getting paid for it, to a mid-sized advertising boutique where I worked happily for several years.
Lastly, as I was on the verge of true happiness, I had picked out office space and was moving to Austin Texas to start my own boutique with great weather and no state taxes, he asked me to “have breakfast and shake a hand” with this great firm he knows. Almost a decade later, it was a perfect fit.
Now we use Whistler to find other great attorneys fed up with Big Law that want interesting work and better lives.

 


S. GREGORY BOYDgreg boyd

Partner & Co-Chair of Interactive Entertainment Group at Frankfurt Kurnit

Unlike other recruiters, Sean and Whistler listened to what I wanted in a job and actively pursued those types of positions. At the time I was attempting to move from one practice area to another and most recruiters pitched me for the same practice area over and over. Whistler also had access to firms that were not on the typical recruiter “list.” I highly recommend them!

 


LINDSAY RODMANLindsay Rodman

Senior Director, Business & Legal Affairs at Atlantic Records (former Davis & Gilbert)

Sean and the Whistler team deeply understand the in-house and law firm markets and how they work together. As we've grown, I've relied on them to help us think through new openings, understand the market and find top talent.

 


JOSH BESERJosh Beser b&w circle

Former General Counsel of Away, Emerging Companies Partner at Wilson Sonsini

I liked working with them so much, I joined the company!


Whistler team circle

DAN MUMMERY, Former Partner and Co-Chair, Strategic Sourcing & Commercial Transactions Group. Hiring Partner, Palo Alto office at Gibson Dunn

EMILY WITT, Former Senior Recruiting & Legal Personnel Coordinator at Wachtell

NADEEN SHATARA, Former Recruiter at Gunderson Dettmer and Fenwick

KATHLEEN MON, Former Senior Manager - NY Administrative and Professional Resources at Torys

LEE IACOCCA, had he worked in legal recruiting, we're sure

Whistler Partners is an outstanding firm, and they've become the gold standard for tech recruiting both on the law firm side and in-house. They have a deep bench, and they have all  of the same resources (if not more than) the big shops do, but their differentiators are unparalleled relationships and how they make the overall experience to be highly personalized.

 


SACHIN BANSALSachin Bansal

General Counsel at SecurityScorecard

I spent over 6 months trying to hire the right in-house GC, using different agencies and interviewing dozens of candidates. Then came Kathleen.
She spent a considerable amount of time with me to understand the role, and more importantly to understand our company's culture.
Her very first intro blew the competition out of the water, and I'm happy to say she's starting next week. These guys are snipers!

 

OMRI DOROmri Dror

Co-Founder & COO of Obligo

The Whistler team has deep relationships with EGVC, private equity and corporate attorneys and have tremendous domain expertise in these areas. I always pay close attention to the candidates they work with. On top of that, the Whistler team is also a pleasure to work with.

 


JEFFREY LEHRERjeffrey lehrer

Chair, Emerging Growth and Venture Capital and Member, US Executive Committee at DLA Piper

Sean and his experienced team at Whistler consistently identify exactly the right candidate when I have an open position. They understand the market and they listen to me — but, more importantly, it’s clear that they listen to their candidates. And they’re terrific to work with.

 


JAHAN SHARIFIJahan Sharifi

Partner & Co-Chair of Investment Funds and Asset Management at Barnes & Thornburg

I wouldn’t be at my current in-house job right now without Jordan’s help with the intermediate steps. I can't recommend him more highly. He’s incredibly well versed in Big Law and is your secret weapon for interview prep — it seems like he knows everybody and he does a great job of helping you frame your move.

 

JONATHAN ALLANJon Allan

Deputy General Counsel at Stoke Therapeutics, former PE M&A and Emerging Companies at Fenwick & West

Taylor and I met in unusual circumstances. It wasn’t a recruiting email or a listed job. In fact, Taylor and I met after I had spoken with another legal recruiter who completely dismissed the transition I was looking to make as “impossible.” I insisted that I wanted to move from Project Finance to EC/VC and he pointed me to Taylor. After a few seconds on the phone I could tell this was the guy and he was at the firm that was going to get me there. Taylor, and Whistler Partners for that matter, are frankly the best at what they do. They leverage personal and professional connections to get you where you want to go. After hearing time and time again that it was impossible to have the career I wanted, here came Taylor who didn’t point out a problem, but instead offered a solution. Low and behold, Taylor’s strategy worked out and today I am an EC/VC associate at a top 3 firm for EC/VC.
Taylor not only worked with me to get me the transition I wanted, but once I was at the new firm Taylor was always readily available to answer questions, offer advice and give perspective on the transition. Whistler Partners and Taylor are well connected, smart, and experienced and those who use their services benefit greatly from their well-earned respect in just about every field of law. Taylor and Whistler Partners have gone on to help several people in my network contemplate and execute excellent lateral moves. Whether you are looking to move to another firm in the same field or if you are trying pivot and change careers entirely, I cannot recommend them enough. If you’re considering a move, or even if you’re not, a conversation with Taylor and the folks at Whistler can, and will, open your eyes into how you can make your professional (and frankly personal) life better.

 

JOSE CORTE-REALJose Corte-Real

Emerging Companies & Venture Capital Associate at Wilson Sonsini

Wolf and the rest of the Whistler team were instrumental in finding the best opportunity for me in FinTech, and more specifically the niche area of cryptocurrencies.
Most importantly, they listened to my desire in terms of law firm structure and growth prospects. They gave me valuable insight on market compensation and leverage in negotiations. Ultimately, I was placed at a great firm that had the kind of culture and growth prospects I sought, and the Whistler team made that happen.

 

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General Counsel at xxxxxxxxxx, former Blockchain Partner at xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Sean - wanted to tell you how much I appreciate what you and you team are doing for us, and for the fact that you “get” our vision etc.
You were right when you first called me – xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx are a perfect fit in terms of how we see the world. I’m excited for xxxxxxxx to grow with Whistler and to build something very cool and ready for the future. I’m looking forward to doing some great deals with you.
Just wanted to drop a line – don’t share this – it’ll ruin my image…😊

 

xxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx gertrude stein 3

CEO and Managing Partner of  xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Whistler has been an invaluable partner to our firm as we have grown over the years. Sean Burke and his team really took the time to get to know what is unique and special about our firm – which translated into Whistler being able to consistently bring us candidates who are a great fit.

 


JEFFREY GREENBAUMJeffrey Greenbaum

Managing Partner at Frankfurt Kurnit

Working with the Whistler team was an absolute pleasure. I can’t think of another firm that could have put so many well-qualified candidates together for a single opening. 

 

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General Counsel of xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx