Local lobbyist Gif Thornton has been elected chairman of the executive committee of regional law firm Adams and Reese.

The six-partner committee oversees the strategic operations of the 12-office firm, which moved into the Nashville market five years ago when it acquired Stokes Bartholomew Evans & Petree. Thornton will serve a one-year term in the position.

"It is a great honor for me to be selected for this position," said Thornton. "We have achieved significant growth over the last few years becoming a solid, diversified and well-managed firm with a healthy client base... I am looking forward to the challenge of continuing our strong leadership and keep our operations moving forward.”

Adams and Reese last month expanded into Florida by adding offices in St. Petersburg and Sarasota. The move expanded Adams and Reese's attorney base to 280.