Tax M&A Attorney Turned Firefighter Makes a Positive Difference

Gary Mandel '94

As tools of a trade go, the tax code and a fire engine seem to have nothing in common. But, as a former Simpson Thacher tax partner turned Wilton, CT firefighter, Gary Mandel can make the connection easily.

“Both careers are demanding and require a strong work ethic, a high level of skill, and attention to detail,” he says. “In both lines of work, I help people. Making a situation better in big and small ways is very motivating to me.” With that sense of purpose, during his 20 years at Simpson, Mandel worked on mergers and acquisitions for clients like Blackstone and KKR. He also served as a volunteer firefighter in his Connecticut hometown. Eventually, he decided to turn the volunteer public service he loved into his paid vocation.

Mandel retired from law firm practice and, earning the top score on his qualifying exam, became a full-time firefighter/EMT for the Wilton Fire Department. Whether providing firefighting, rescue, emergency medical care, or community outreach services, he finds the work incredibly rewarding. “There is a sense of accomplishment and an overall good feeling knowing that my commitment and work contributes to keeping the town functioning and its residents safe,” he shares. “It’s a team effort with my fellow firefighters, involving group training to handle high stress situations. That bond is truly unique. Like family, we’re always there for each other.”

Along with firefighting, Mandel serves as president of the Wilton Firefighters Local 2233 Union. It’s a very full professional plate, but Mandel has an affinity for hard work. He had a finance degree from Brooklyn College, an MBA from Pace, and a full-time job when he enrolled in the former evening program at St. John’s Law. “I commuted to the Law School most days for classes that started at 6 p.m. and ended at 10 p.m.,” he says. “I couldn’t wait to get to campus. There was always a bright, positive, classroom environment and everyone was excited about learning the law.”

After graduating from St. John’s, Mandel clerked in the U.S. Tax Court in Washington, D.C. and, later, earned an LL.M. in Tax Law at night. Today, in addition to his firefighter and union leader duties, he works as an M&A consultant and teaches law as an adjunct professor. Family time is also a priority. “I have two wonderful, adult daughters who make me proud every single day and, along with their mom, we have a tremendous family bond,” he says. “I also have a special woman in my life who I’m very thankful for—she brings love, support, and understanding to all I do.”

Life’s pieces fit together seamlessly for Mandel, as he continues to serve the greater good from his Wilton firehouse. “I’m very fortunate,” he says. “I go to work feeling I’ll be helping someone, possibly on the worst day of their life. I appreciate knowing that I’m making a positive difference in my community every single day.”