Michael Blachly is responsible for the strategic direction and execution of Gray Reed’s business development and marketing initiatives, ensuring their successful implementation in alignment with the firm's overall strategic direction and driving a measurable business impact. He works closely with its practice groups, industry teams and lawyers to maintain a strong client-centric approach, enhance marketplace visibility, and foster seamless collaboration across various offices and practice areas.
In addition, he also serves as a marketing consultant for Gray Reed Advisory where he works directly with clients in their strategic planning and marketing and business development strategies. He also serves on the firm’s strategic planning committee, diversity committee and Gray Reed Foundation board of directors.
Throughout his career, Michael has developed extensive expertise in diverse areas, including business development, client interviews, marketing and business development training, competitive intelligence, public relations, brand management, marketing communications, and event planning. As a Certified TeamSight Consultant, he excels in fostering collaboration, building strong teams, and solving complex problems, thereby maximizing company potential.
He is a frequent speaker to national and international audiences on legal marketing, business development, client service and the business of law.
Michael served as the first president of the Legal Marketing Association’s (LMA) Southwest Region and has held numerous other leadership positions within the organization. He was the first recipient of the southwest region’s President’s Award and was recognized with the 2021 Distinguished Service Award.
Michael graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism and from the Southern Methodist University Cox School of Business’s Graduate Marketing Program.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Michael’s lifelong passion is exploring the outdoors and capturing its beauty through nature photography. His landscape, travel, and outdoor scenes have been published in various magazines and earned him numerous awards. Visit www.michaelblachly.com to view his work. Additionally, he serves on the Advisory Board for the Trinity River Audubon Center of the National Audubon Society, furthering his commitment to the preservation of nature and its habitats.