We’re proud to celebrate Ben Leader, Managing Partner at Elrod Pope, as one of York County’s 2026 Ones to Watch honorees. 

As part of the next generation of leadership at Elrod Pope, Ben has helped guide the firm through a period of tremendous growth while remaining deeply committed to the York County community. Under his leadership, the firm has expanded to more than 45 local team members and now serves more than four times the number of individuals and families it did just a few years ago. 

But for Ben, success is about far more than growth. 

He has played a major role in strengthening Elrod Pope’s community involvement, helping support organizations and events such as Come-See-Me, Night to Shine, Miracle Park, Back the Pack, and many other local causes. Colleagues and community leaders alike describe Ben as someone who genuinely enjoys investing in the people and organizations that make York County stronger. 

Professionally, Ben is active in both the South Carolina and North Carolina legal communities through organizations like the South Carolina Advocates for Justice and North Carolina Advocates for Justice. He has also been recognized as a National Trial Lawyers Top 100 civil trial attorney in South Carolina and named a Super Lawyers Rising Star for the past three years. 

Outside the office, Ben dedicates significant time to community service. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Hospice & Community Care, an organization that holds deep personal meaning to him after helping care for his father during the final chapter of his life. He has also served in multiple leadership roles with the York County Clemson Club and recently completed a term on the Clemson Alumni Association Board of Directors. 

Whether he’s mentoring his team, supporting local nonprofits, or continuing his family’s legacy of community involvement, Ben leads with compassion, humility, and purpose. 

Ben Leader is an inspiring leader, dedicated community advocate, and truly One to Watch.