SAN FRANCISCO — The former chief financial officer of Dentons has joined Sheppard Mullin as chief operating officer, becoming the firm’s highest-ranking executive who is not a lawyer.

Ted Tinson, based in the firm’s Los Angeles office, will manage daily operations across all offices and practice groups at Sheppard, Mullin, Richter, & Hampton. He reports to the firm’s chairman, Guy Halgren, and its executive committee.