Brent J. Gibbs

Brent Gibbs serves as Principal and General Counsel at MDK, where he partners with Ted Manley to lead the firm's strategic direction and oversee key operational functions. A versatile and agile legal executive, Brent's strengths include strategic, creative, and inclusive leadership. He has extensive experience addressing complex legal and business matters, leading organizational change, and driving innovation. Known as a valued business partner with extensive experience in the hospitality and timeshare industry, he proactively develops new ideas and creative solutions to legal and business priorities.

In this role, Brent is responsible for guiding MDK’s Practice Group Directors, shaping the firm’s legal strategies, and managing compliance initiatives. Reflecting on his leadership responsibilities, Brent notes, “Ted and I work day in and day out on a multitude of decisions associated with managing the firm, including everything from technology to operations.”

Brent brings a wealth of experience to MDK, having spent over a decade at The Walt Disney Company, where he served as general counsel for Disney Vacation Club. His career spans diverse sectors, including business litigation, real estate development, and transactional law. Brent's tenure also includes time as Associate General Counsel and Vice President at Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, as well as his early years in private practice as a partner specializing in complex business litigation. He describes his career as one of both breadth and depth, stating, “Over the course of my career, I’ve had to both fly high, think strategically as a leader, but also fly low to identify issues and solve problems.”

In addition to his legal expertise, Brent emphasizes the importance of creativity in his approach to problem solving. He explains, “I enjoy using my business and legal experience to come up with creative solutions to not only mitigate risk, but also to grow the business and generate revenue.” Brent’s approach to leadership is grounded in perseverance, grit, and determination, values that drive his creative problem solving and strategic thinking. This innovative mindset, combined with his strategic acumen, positions Brent as a key driver of MDK’s continued growth and evolution.

When discussing MDK's mission to pioneer uncommon paths, Brent highlights the importance of creative thinking and adaptability. "There are many paths we can take, but true success comes from thinking creatively—finding solutions others might overlook and continuously improving along the way," he explains. He stresses that organizations must continually evolve and not become complacent, noting, "The strategies that worked a year ago may no longer be effective. To stay ahead, we must continuously seek improvement and adapt to an ever-evolving marketplace."

Outside of the office, Brent enjoys spending time outdoors with his family. Whether it’s boating, gardening, hiking, or visiting the beach, he enjoys embracing the outdoors and spending quality time with his loved ones. His dedication to both his professional and personal life exemplifies his well-rounded approach to leadership and success.