Veteran Labor Strategist and Rising Litigator Join Barnes & Thornburg's Indianapolis Office

INDIANAPOLIS (July 22, 2025) — Barnes & Thornburg has added two accomplished attorneys to its Indianapolis office, reinforcing its nationally recognized labor and litigation practices. Matthew Kelley, a veteran labor negotiator with deep experience in high-stakes union matters, has joined as a partner in the Labor and Employment department. Victor Obasaju, a former federal law clerk and rising litigator, joins the Litigation department.

“Matt’s reputation as an insightful, committed presence in complex labor negotiations speaks for itself,” said Kenneth Yerkes, chair of the Labor and Employment department. “He enhances our ability to provide employers with practical, business-focused guidance in today’s increasingly challenging labor landscape.”

“Victor is a thoughtful and agile litigator whose experience at the federal level adds meaningful depth to our national litigation team,” said Randy Brown, chair of the Litigation department. “His versatility and poise under pressure are exactly what clients expect when facing high-stakes disputes and investigations.”

Kelley brings more than 15 years of experience in labor and employment law, including collective bargaining, union campaigns, unfair labor practice litigation and contract administration. He has led negotiations for more than 80 labor agreements across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, entertainment and retail. He also advises employers on positive employee relations, supervisor training and workforce strategy, and frequently represents clients in labor arbitrations and proceedings before the National Labor Relations Board and federal courts. 

Obasaju advises companies facing complex commercial disputes, government investigations and enforcement actions that carry significant business and reputational risk. He has represented clients in matters involving the DOJ, SEC, OFAC and FDIC, and has experience litigating in state and federal courts nationwide. Drawing on a federal clerkship and private practice at a global law firm and a leading white collar and litigation boutique, he brings a strategic, forward-focused approach to litigation and regulatory defense.

“The Indianapolis office plays a central role in driving our growth and culture,” said Brian Burdick, managing partner of the Indianapolis office. “Matt and Victor bring the kind of skill, perspective and energy that not only strengthens our local team but also contributes meaningfully to the firm’s national momentum. We’re excited to have them here.” 

Kelley earned his J.D. with honors from Indiana University Maurer School of Law, an M.A. from Indiana University in Russian Studies, and a B.A. from Towson University. Obasaju earned his J.D. from Columbia Law School and his B.A. with honors from Indiana University.

With more than 800 attorneys and other legal professionals, Barnes & Thornburg is one of the largest law firms in the country. The firm serves clients worldwide from offices in Atlanta, Boston, California, Chicago, Delaware, Indiana, Michigan, Minneapolis, Nashville, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Philadelphia, Raleigh, Salt Lake City, South Florida, Texas and Washington, D.C. For more information, visit us at www.btlaw.com.