Gallagher & Kennedy is proud to announce that Az Business Magazine has named shareholder Kiersten A. Murphy to its 2026 list of Most Influential Women in Arizona Business. The awards ceremony will be held on August 20, 2026, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix.
Since 2012, AzBigMedia, publishers of Az Business Magazine, has honored a select group of talented businesswomen who are excelling in their careers, deeply rooted in their communities, and inspiring all. Selected by a panel of former honorees from hundreds of nominations, this year's 34 honorees represent varied backgrounds and industries in positions.
Kiersten A. Murphy
Shareholder | Gallagher & Kennedy
Background: Kiersten works with mid- and large-sized companies to pursue and defend meaningful opportunities for businesses operating in virtually any industry – from health care and transportation, food and beverage providers, and technology and software companies. Kiersten also represents businesses and individuals pursuing or defending against a variety of commercial and civil lawsuits. She received her undergraduate degree in Finance, summa cum laude, from Northern Arizona University, and her Juris Doctorate, summa cum laude, and first in her class, from Arizona State University. She also received the highest score on the Arizona Bar Exam (July 2003).
Advice for younger self: My advice to my younger self would be: “Have confidence, take a few risks, and don’t be so hard on yourself!” Especially as a younger lawyer, I placed a tremendous amount of pressure on myself. And, while pressure can be a positive, it can also be stifling. I would encourage myself to take some chances, bet on myself, and maybe even make a mistake – because sometimes the best way to grow as a person and a professional is to allow yourself to make a mistake, recover from that mistake, and realize you’re stronger for it!
Surprising fact: "I love a good nap! In fact, having spent some time in Spain, I genuinely think the United States should implement the idea of an afternoon siesta: everyone has time to take a power nap every day after lunch and it’s completely socially acceptable. I’ve even studied the science of naps, which supports that napping increases cognitive function and overall productivity. It’s a win-win!"
Click here to see the full list of 2026 honorees.
about our attorney
Kiersten Murphy provides top-notch legal counsel to Arizona business owners seeking revenue-generating opportunities with local and state governments. Working with mid- and large-sized companies in virtually any industry, she helps clients navigate the complex and specialized area of public bidding and procurement, from reviewing proposals prior to submission, to post-award defense of, or challenges to, contract awards.