In this episode of the Market Leaders Podcast, host David Ackert interviews Guest Chris Pullen, Head of Business Development at Kennedys. Chris shares his extensive experience spanning over thirty years in law, including a significant period at Ernst & Young. They discuss the perceived encroachment of the big four accounting firms into the legal market and explore why this hasn't materialized as expected.

Chris highlights the advantages the big four hold, such as their global scale and strong sales culture, and contrasts them with the inherent strengths of traditional law firms, including depth in major jurisdictions and the ability to handle significant litigation. They explore deeply the cultural differences between the two types of firms, particularly in client relationship management and the focus on margins.

Chris also provides valuable lessons that law firms can learn from the big four, emphasizing the importance of systematic processes and future-focused strategies. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the evolving dynamics between law firms and the big four.

In this episode of the Market Leaders Podcast, host David Ackert and guest Mira Dewji, Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer at Seyfarth, have an insightful discussion about Mira’s journey from being an associate lawyer to becoming a leader in diversity and inclusion (DEI). Together, they explore the importance of moving beyond optics-driven DEI initiatives toward creating genuine, inclusive workplace cultures.

Mira and David delve into the significance of fostering environments where individuals can bring their whole selves to work, the impact of stakeholder-driven DEI efforts, and the challenges of balancing short-term and long-term DEI strategies. Mira emphasizes that effective DEI work requires contributions from everyone in the organization, not just those from underrepresented groups. This includes practical measures like performance evaluation criteria, job descriptions, and recognition of diversity efforts.

She also discusses the concept of the "diversity tax". She explores ways to mitigate it, such as clear performance evaluation questions, term limits for committee roles, and creditable hours for DEI contributions. Mira highlights the need for inclusive leadership, which involves being open to different perspectives, having uncomfortable conversations, and balancing both the moral and business cases for DEI.

The episode concludes with Mira offering advice to law firm leaders on addressing DEI challenges, particularly for mid-sized firms without client mandates. She encourages moving away from simplistic narratives and developing practical skills to foster long-term inclusion and diversity in the workplace.

In this episode of the Market Leader’s Podcast, host David Ackert engages in an insightful conversation with Courtney Beauzile, the head of Marketing, business development, and communications at Robins Kaplan. Courtney shares her journey from sales to legal marketing, detailing her extensive experience in team building. At Robins Kaplan, she has undertaken a comprehensive listening tour to align her team with the firm’s strategic goals, focusing on strengths, growth areas, and motivation.

Courtney outlines her four-pillar structure for a high-performing department: digital marketing, communications, business development, and operations. She emphasizes the importance of operations in integrating technology and data to drive strategic decisions. The discussion highlights the evolving needs in legal marketing, stressing the significance of data literacy and technological integration.

Courtney also shares innovative strategies for filling skill gaps, including hiring temporary staff to assess fit before making permanent offers. She underscores the value of professional development, advocating for regular training and management development programs to prepare team members for leadership roles.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into effective team building, the importance of continuous professional development, and innovative staffing solutions. Courtney’s practical advice and forward-thinking approach provide a blueprint for leaders looking to enhance their teams' capabilities and performance.