Kathy Ruemmler, the chief legal officer and general counsel of Goldman Sachs Group Inc., announced on Thursday that she will resign from her senior role effective June 30, 2026, following scrutiny over her past relationships with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The decision comes after recently disclosed government documents revealed a closer and more personal connection than previously known.

Ruemmler’s resignation follows the release of internal U.S. Department of Justice files on Epstein that included extensive email exchanges between them. The correspondence showed Ruemmler referring to Epstein as “Uncle Jeffrey” and “older brother,” and accepting luxury gifts, such as high-end handbags and other items, even after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for procuring minors for prostitution.

Although Ruemmler has repeatedly characterised her association with Epstein as strictly professional and rooted in her legal work before joining Goldman Sachs in 2020, the mounting media attention and reputational pressure appear to have shifted the calculus. In a statement, she said that the ongoing scrutiny was becoming a “distraction” for the firm and that stepping down was in Goldman’s best interest.

Also Read: Gates Foundation Issues Statement Denying Payments To Jeffrey Epstein

Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon acknowledged her contributions, describing Ruemmler as an “extraordinary general counsel” whose guidance on legal and regulatory matters had been crucial. He said her departure would be felt across the organisation, praising her mentorship and professional accomplishments.

The controversy ties into a wider wave of scrutiny over Epstein’s networks and influence across politics, law, finance and academia, which has led to resignations and reputational damage for several high-profile figures. Ruemmler’s previous service as White House counsel under President Barack Obama and her subsequent elevation at Goldman Sachs had positioned her as one of corporate America’s most prominent legal figures.

Ruemmler’s decision to leave underscores the ongoing reputational and ethical challenges institutions face as previously private connections to Epstein are brought to light through federal document releases. It also highlights the sensitivity of professional conduct rules at major financial firms when leaders’ personal histories come under renewed public examination.

Also Read: Epstein Controversy Rocks Starmer: Shabana Mahmood Emerges as Next UK PM Contender