Parsons Behle & Latimer, one of the Intermountain Region’s premier law firms, has been named the 2025 International Business of the Year by the World Trade Association of Utah (WTA). The recognition honors the firm’s exceptional contributions to advancing international commerce, collaboration and global business engagement in the State of Utah.
Founded in 1882, Parsons Behle & Latimer is one of the largest Utah-based law firms, with more than 220 attorneys across 11 offices in Utah, Idaho, Montana, Nevada and Wyoming. Over its 140-year history, the firm has forged strong relationships with multi-billion-dollar corporations, emerging start-ups and individual entrepreneurs engaged in international trade and transactions. Parsons is also a proud member of a global network of law firms, enabling it to serve clients with a global reach and perspective.
“Parsons Behle & Latimer’s vision and global expertise have made it an indispensable partner for Utah’s international business community,” said Simon P. Greathead, president of the World Trade Association of Utah. “We are especially grateful for the contributions of Barbara Bagnasacco, whose leadership and commitment to advancing international collaboration have been instrumental in strengthening Utah’s global footprint.”
Parsons Behle & Latimer has demonstrated sustained dedication to supporting Utah’s global business growth through its legal expertise and community engagement. The firm has been a key contributor to the WTA’s initiatives, including roundtable discussions, the annual Women in International Business (WIIB) Conference, and the WTA Board of Directors.
A central figure in these efforts is Barbara Bagnasacco, a Parsons attorney licensed in both Utah and Europe. Bagnasacco helped launch the WIIB Conference alongside Franz Kolb of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, transforming the event into one of the most successful gatherings in Utah’s international business community. Her work exemplifies the firm’s global outlook and its commitment to empowering businesses that operate across borders. Bagnasacco says, “It is an honor to serve on the board of directors of the WTA alongside experienced Utah executives and professionals who are committed to promoting international transactions and relations, a commitment that I share.”
“This recognition reflects our firm’s ongoing mission to help Utah companies succeed on the world stage,” said Shawn C. Ferrin, chairperson, and CEO of Parsons Behle & Latimer. “We’re proud to work alongside organizations like the WTA that share our belief in fostering international opportunity and innovation.”
The award will be formally presented at the WTA’s Annual Dinner, titled “Utah Open for Business: Our Global Future,” on Thurs., Nov. 13, 2025, from 6–8 p.m. at Millcreek Commons.
