Staples names SVP general counsel

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. — Staples has named Cynthia Pevehouse SVP general counsel, effective Jan. 3, 2012. Pevehouse will have global management responsibility for the company’s legal team and report to Ron Sargent, Staples’ chairman and chief executive officer.

“Cynthia brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to Staples,” said Sargent. “With her extensive legal management experience and proven leadership, Cynthia will play an important part in supporting the company’s growth.”

Pevehouse joins Staples from international law firm Steptoe & Johnson LLP where she served as senior counsel advising senior management and boards of directors. Previously, she served as EVP and general counsel at Allianz of America Corp. Prior to Allianz of America, Pevehouse served in senior legal positions in the technology industry, including general counsel at Polycom, Inc. and Ask Jeeves Inc. and a senior role at Compaq Computer Corp. She holds a J.D. from Williamette University School of Law.