Patton Boggs has long been revered as one of the top lobbying firms in Washington, D.C. But over the past year the K Street powerhouse has faced a series of defections, including the exit of high-profile partner Daniel Kracov, an 18-year firm veteran, and lobbyist Kathleen Means, both to Arnold & Porter. More recently, six lawyers in the public policy practice left for Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman.

Amid the turbulence, Patton Boggs announced a major restructuring last week that puts younger blood into management positions. “As we get larger, we just in general need more management depth and breadth,” says Stuart Pape, the firm’s longtime managing partner.